Partial Splenectomy Versus Total Splenectomy in Sickle Cell Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

In brief

This meta-analysis compares partial versus total splenectomy outcomes in sickle cell disease patients requiring surgical intervention for splenic sequestration or hypersplenism. The review synthesizes evidence on hematological parameters and postoperative complications to guide surgical decision-making in this patient population.

• Partial splenectomy preserves splenic immune function while addressing acute sequestration and hypersplenism in SCD patients.
• Total splenectomy eliminates splenic complications but increases lifelong infection risk, particularly encapsulated bacteria.
• Comparative hematological outcomes (hemoglobin, platelet recovery) differ between PS and TS approaches in SCD management.
• Postoperative complication profiles vary: PS may have recurrence risk, TS has higher overwhelming post-splenectomy infection risk.
• Surgical decision between PS and TS should weigh immune preservation against definitive resolution of splenic pathology.

Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.