splenectomy

noun

sple·​nec·​to·​my spli-ˈnek-tə-mē How to pronounce splenectomy (audio)
plural splenectomies
: surgical removal of the spleen
splenectomize
spli-ˈnek-tə-ˌmīz How to pronounce splenectomy (audio)
transitive verb

Examples of splenectomy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The organ was surgically removed the next day during a splenectomy, according to the complaint. — Julia Marnin, Sacramento Bee, 28 Feb. 2024 However, a splenectomy does permanently reduce the body’s ability to fight infection and does not fully prevent relapse, although remission of ITP following the operation is 60 to 70 percent. — Robert A Norman, Discover Magazine, 16 Sep. 2011

Word History

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International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

circa 1859, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of splenectomy was circa 1859

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“Splenectomy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/splenectomy. Accessed 21 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

splenectomy

noun
sple·​nec·​to·​my spli-ˈnek-tə-mē How to pronounce splenectomy (audio)
plural splenectomies
: surgical excision of the spleen

More from Merriam-Webster on splenectomy

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about splenectomy

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