Splenectomy
Aproximate Cost:
$1,700 - $2,200
What It Is
A splenectomy is the surgical removal of the spleen. The spleen plays a role in filtering blood and storing red blood cells, but it can be safely removed when diseased or damaged. The surgeon carefully ligates the blood vessels supplying the spleen and removes the organ through an abdominal incision.
Why It’s Performed
This procedure is performed to treat conditions such as splenic tumors (benign or malignant), splenic torsion, rupture from trauma, or severe bleeding from splenic masses. Removing the spleen eliminates the source of bleeding, prevents rupture of tumors, and allows biopsy of masses to determine if cancer is present.
Risks Involved
Potential complications include bleeding, infection, blood clot formation, heart rhythm abnormalities, or spread of cancer if a malignant tumor is present. Because many patients present in critical condition, rapid stabilization before and after surgery is often necessary to reduce risk.
Typical Recovery Time
Depending on patient stability, some pets stay in the hospital for 1–3 days after surgery for pain control and monitoring. Once home, activity is restricted for 2–3 weeks while the incision heals. A safety cone is used to prevent licking or chewing. Most pets recover well and adapt to life without a spleen.
Our Approach
At Howard County Animal Hospital in Ellicott City, MD, we perform splenectomies with precision and care. Our goal is to make high-quality surgical care accessible and affordable for local pet owners, and we provide clear, upfront estimates so families can plan for the cost of treatment.
*Previous workup required or to be performed at visit.
*Histopathology(biopsy) cost is additional
We are committed to offering affordable surgery options with transparent pricing. The cost shown are general estimates only, and a personalized estimate will be provided after your consultation.
We accept all major credit cards, Zelle, and cash. For clients interested in payment plans, we also work with CareCredit.
What’s Included in Our Surgical Costs
Our surgical prices are designed to be as transparent as possible and include:
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All charges typically associated with the day of the procedure
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Preoperative exam the day of the procedure
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Anesthesia and monitoring required throughout the procedure
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All perioperative injectable medications administered before, during and after the procedure to keep your pet safe and comfortable
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IV catheter and fluids to maintain vascular support during your pet’s surgery and recovery
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Detailed discharge instructions for at-home aftercare
What’s NOT Included in Our Surgical Costs
The following items are not included in the surgical costs and may be recommended or required depending on your pet’s individual needs:
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Pre-operative diagnostic workups to determine the underlying problem (e.g., bloodwork, radiographs, ultrasound)
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All diagnostics associated with your pet's procedure would be included (e.g. orthopedic surgery requiring post-operative radiographs, cystotomy with stone analysis).
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Pre-anesthetic blood work
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Optional for healthy pets under 3 years old for routine procedures, but recommended to help ensure the safety of anesthesia.
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Radiographs (X-rays) associated with diagnosing or planning the procedure
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Medications to take home (such as pain meds, antibiotics, sedatives or safety collars).
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If needed: Continued care at a local ER for monitoring and stability, recommended for unstable and sick patients.
We will discuss all recommended or required services with you in advance so you have a complete understanding of your pet’s surgical plan and costs.