Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

Which concerning splenectomy is not true?

1. Major veins and arteries to be ligated are in the hilum of the spleen

2. Subcapsular hematoma or splenic rupture require emergency surgery

3. Thrombocytosis usually occurs following surgery

4. Surgery causes increases in antibody production

The correct answer is: Surgery causes increases in antibody production

The assertion that surgery causes increases in antibody production is not true in the context of splenectomy. The spleen plays a crucial role in the immune system, particularly in filtering blood and helping produce antibodies. Following splenectomy, patients may experience an altered immune response, as the organ responsible for producing certain antibodies and removing old blood cells is removed. This can result in increased susceptibility to infections, especially from encapsulated organisms, rather than an increase in antibody production. In contrast, the other statements are factual and relevant to the procedure. Major veins and arteries, like the splenic artery and vein, are indeed ligated at the hilum of the spleen to prevent bleeding during surgery. Additionally, conditions such as subcapsular hematoma or splenic rupture are considered surgical emergencies, as they can lead to significant internal bleeding and require prompt intervention. Thrombocytosis, or an increase in platelet count, is a common response following a splenectomy due to the removal of the spleen's role in regulating platelet levels in the bloodstream.