Our approach
Not all splenic cysts require surgery.
We assess the size, structure, and origin of the cyst, the clinical symptoms, and the risk of complications. If there are no indications for surgery, follow-up monitoring is possible. If surgical treatment is needed, we aim to preserve as much functioning splenic tissue as possible.
What is a splenic cyst?
A splenic cyst is a fluid-filled cavity located within the spleen tissue or on its surface.
The following types are distinguished:
- true (congenital) cysts
- post-traumatic pseudocysts
- parasitic cysts (echinococcosis)
- rare cystic tumors
Most cysts are benign.
Why do splenic cysts develop?
The main causes are:
- congenital developmental features
- abdominal injuries
- previous bleeding into the spleen
- parasitic diseases
- inflammatory processes
Symptoms
Small cysts usually cause no symptoms.
As they enlarge, the following may appear:
- pain or a feeling of heaviness in the left upper abdomen
- discomfort after eating
- feeling full quickly
- a feeling of pressure in the upper abdomen
- nausea
Large cysts carry a risk of rupture, infection, or bleeding.
When to see a doctor
A consultation is recommended if:
- a splenic cyst has been found on ultrasound or CT
- the cyst is growing
- you have pain or discomfort
- a parasitic cyst is suspected
- the indications for surgical treatment need to be determined
How is the diagnosis made?
The following are used to establish the diagnosis:
- consultation with a surgeon
- ultrasound examination
- contrast-enhanced computed tomography
- magnetic resonance imaging when indicated
- laboratory tests
- serological tests if a parasitic cyst is suspected
How are splenic cysts treated?
The treatment strategy depends on the size, symptoms, and type of cyst.
Options may include:
- follow-up monitoring
- laparoscopic spleen-preserving operations
- partial splenic resection
- splenectomy in cases where preserving the organ is impossible or unsafe
Simple puncture treatment is rarely used because of the high risk of recurrence.
Surgical treatment
At MSI we perform:
- laparoscopic cyst removal
- cyst fenestration (in carefully selected cases)
- partial splenectomy
- laparoscopic splenectomy
- open splenectomy for large or complex lesions
Our goal is to preserve as much of the spleen as possible, provided this is safe from an oncological and technical point of view.
Recovery after treatment
After laparoscopic operations, most patients recover quickly and return to normal life.
If a splenectomy is performed, the patient receives the appropriate vaccinations and recommendations on preventing infectious complications.
At MSI, modern ERAS protocols are used to support fast rehabilitation.
Why choose MSI
- Experience in treating spleen diseases
- Preference for spleen-preserving operations
- Modern laparoscopic surgery
- Individual treatment planning
- Adherence to international guidelines
- Enhanced recovery protocols (ERAS)
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Small asymptomatic cysts often require only periodic monitoring.
When the cyst is large, symptoms appear, it grows quickly, there is a risk of rupture, a parasitic origin is suspected, or a tumor cannot be ruled out.
No. Whenever possible, we aim to perform a spleen-preserving operation. Splenectomy is performed only when the spleen cannot be safely preserved.
In most cases, yes. The laparoscopic approach means less postoperative pain, faster recovery, and a shorter hospital stay.
The outlook is favorable for most patients. With well-chosen treatment, symptoms disappear, and the risk of recurrence after radical removal of the cyst is minimal. If the spleen needs to be removed, patients can lead a full life after appropriate vaccination and preventive measures.