What is a splenic cyst?
A splenic cyst is a fluid-filled cavity that may be congenital, post-traumatic, or parasitic.
Most small cysts cause no symptoms, but as they grow they may cause:
- pain or discomfort under the left ribs
- a feeling of pressure or fullness
- early satiety
- a risk of infection
- bleeding into the cyst
- cyst rupture
The main treatment for symptomatic or large cysts is surgery.
Our approach
At MSI, we aim to preserve the spleen as much as possible, as it plays an important role in the immune system.
Before surgery, a comprehensive examination is carried out, which may include:
- ultrasound
- computed tomography
- magnetic resonance imaging, when indicated
- laboratory tests
When technically feasible, we aim to perform the operation laparoscopically and preserve the spleen.
Depending on the location, size, and nature of the cyst, the following may be performed:
- laparoscopic fenestration (unroofing) of the cyst
- excision of the cyst
- partial splenectomy
- splenectomy, only when organ-preserving treatment is impossible or unsafe
Postoperative treatment follows the principles of *ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery)*.
When is surgery needed?
Surgery is performed for:
- symptomatic cysts
- large cysts
- rapid growth
- infection
- bleeding
- a risk of rupture
- a lesion of uncertain nature
Indications for surgery
Surgery is recommended for:
- a cyst diameter over 5--6 cm (if clinically indicated)
- pain
- compression of neighboring organs
- complications
- doubts about the benign nature of the lesion
How is the operation performed?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
After the abdominal cavity is explored, the optimal extent of the operation is determined.
The main goal is *complete removal or excision of the cyst while preserving as much functioning spleen as possible*.
For large or deeply located cysts, a partial splenectomy may be performed.
If organ-preserving treatment is impossible, a splenectomy is performed.
The removed tissues are sent for histopathological examination.
Advantages of laparoscopic surgery
- Minimal surgical trauma
- Less postoperative pain
- Fast recovery
- Lower risk of wound complications
- Shorter hospital stay
- Maximum preservation of splenic function
Recovery after surgery
Postoperative treatment follows *ERAS* principles.
Most patients quickly return to their usual physical activity. The length of the hospital stay depends on the extent of the procedure and whether resection or removal of the spleen was necessary.
Our advantages
- Extensive experience in organ-preserving spleen surgery
- A commitment to preserving as much functioning tissue as possible
- Laparoscopic surgery when technically feasible
- Individual choice of the optimal extent of surgery
- Routine histopathological examination of removed tissues
- Enhanced recovery program (ERAS)
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Small asymptomatic cysts can be monitored. Surgery is recommended when symptoms appear, the cyst grows, or complications develop.
In most cases, yes. We always aim to perform an organ-preserving operation when it is safe and effective.
In most cases, yes. Very large cysts or a difficult location may require open surgery.
Yes, but only when the organ cannot be preserved or preserving it poses a risk to the patient.
The risk of recurrence depends on the type of operation and the nature of the cyst. After complete excision of the cyst, it is minimal.