Our approach
Not every splenic lesion requires surgery.
We assess the clinical picture, the results of modern imaging, the size of the lesion, its growth, and the risk of malignancy. If the tumor causes no symptoms and has typical features of a benign lesion, follow-up monitoring is possible. When indicated, surgical treatment is performed, preserving the spleen whenever possible.
What are benign splenic tumors?
These are lesions that show no signs of malignant growth and do not metastasize.
The most common are:
- hemangioma
- lymphangioma
- hamartoma
- littoral cell angioma
- inflammatory pseudotumor
- other rare benign lesions
Most of them grow slowly and have a favorable outlook.
Why do benign tumors develop?
The exact causes of most benign splenic tumors are unknown.
Their development is thought to be associated with:
- congenital developmental features
- vascular anomalies
- abnormal development of lymphatic tissue
- previous inflammatory processes
Symptoms
In most cases, the tumors cause no symptoms.
Large tumors may cause:
- pain or heaviness in the left upper abdomen
- discomfort after meals
- feeling full quickly
- enlargement of the spleen
- a feeling of pressure in the upper abdomen
When to see a doctor
A consultation is recommended if:
- a splenic lesion has been found on ultrasound, CT, or MRI
- the tumor is growing
- you have pain or discomfort
- malignancy cannot be ruled out
- 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
- blood tests
A biopsy of splenic lesions is usually not performed because of the risk of bleeding and its limited diagnostic value.
How are benign splenic tumors treated?
The treatment strategy depends on the type of tumor, its size, and its clinical manifestations.
Options may include:
- follow-up monitoring
- follow-up CT or MRI
- spleen-preserving operations
- laparoscopic or open splenectomy
Surgical treatment
At MSI we perform:
- laparoscopic splenectomy
- open splenectomy for large or technically complex tumors
- partial splenectomy in carefully selected patients
- removal of lesions with mandatory histological examination
When planning surgery, we always assess the possibility of preserving functioning splenic tissue, if this is safe for the patient.
Recovery after treatment
After laparoscopic operations, most patients quickly return to everyday life.
In the case of splenectomy, the necessary vaccinations are given, together with recommendations on preventing infectious complications.
At MSI, modern ERAS protocols are used to ensure fast postoperative recovery.
Why choose MSI
- Experience in treating rare splenic tumors
- Modern laparoscopic surgery
- The most spleen-preserving approach possible
- Comprehensive imaging diagnostics
- Enhanced recovery protocols (ERAS)
- Mandatory histological examination of all removed lesions
Frequently Asked Questions
No. If the lesion has typical benign features, does not grow, and causes no symptoms, regular monitoring is possible.
In most cases, no. However, sometimes the nature of the lesion can only be confirmed definitively after surgery and histological examination.
No. If it is technically possible and oncologically safe, we aim to perform a spleen-preserving procedure. A total splenectomy is performed only when there are appropriate indications.
In most cases, yes. The laparoscopic approach is the method of choice thanks to less tissue trauma, faster recovery, and a lower risk of postoperative complications.
The outlook is favorable. After removal of a benign tumor, most patients recover fully. If a splenectomy is necessary, a person can lead a full life after vaccination and appropriate preventive measures.