Protection against pneumococcal bacteremia by partial splenectomy.

An animal model of partial splenectomy and its effect upon subsequent challenge with pneumococcus were evaluated. Results of these studies support the contention that partial splenectomy protects the host against pneumococcal bacteremia. The data show that small splenic remnant attached to identifiable blood vessels afford protection against sepsis. Thus, partial splenectomy may be used in massive splenic fractures if hemostasis can be achieved, even if less than 25 per cent of the spleen remains in continuity with its vascular supply. The conclusion that the filtering effect of the spleen is paramount in protecting against sepsis appears justified.