COMMONLY PERFORMED PROCEDURES LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY OF THE SPLEEN AND PANCREAS Occasionally, patients who have a disorder of the spleen will benefit from removal of the spleen. Dr. DiNome is experienced in performing this procedure laparoscopically. Patients have small incisions through which the spleen is removed, and have less pain after surgery and a shorter hospital stay. Patients who are scheduled to have their spleens removed are given vaccines approximately two weeks prior to surgery to boost their immune systems to help their bodies fight certain types of bacterial infections that the spleen typically recognizes. Dr. DiNome is also experienced in removing certain tumors located in the pancreatic body and tail laparoscopically. Again, patients appear to have less postoperative pain and a shorter hospital stay after the laparoscopic approach. Patients will still be discharged to home with a drain in place which will be removed in the office once the output is minimal. This drain is placed in the pancreatic bed near the stapled end of the pancreas and is a very important part of pancreatic surgery. Given the complexity and uniqueness of these surgeries, it is best to schedule a consultation with Dr. DiNome to discuss your individual surgery and care.