Splenectomy Flashcards
1
Q
After a splenectomy, what are patients at most risk of?
A
- Pneumococcus
- Haemophilus
- Meningococcus
- Capnocytophaga canimorsus* infections (From dog bites)
2
Q
What vaccinations should someone with a splenectomy receive and when?
A
- If elective, should be done 2 weeks prior to operation
- Hib, meningitis A & C
- Annual influenza vaccination
- Pneumococcal vaccine every 5 years
3
Q
What antibiotic prophylaxis should splenectomy patients receive?
A
Penicillin V: unfortunately clear guidelines do not exist of how long antibiotic prophylaxis should be continued. It is generally accepted though that penicillin should be continued for at least 2 years and at least until the patient is 16 years of age, although the majority of patients are usually put on antibiotic prophylaxis for life.
