History of splenectomy

Background: The spleen has been considered for millennia a fascinating and mysterious organ with multiple functions. The spleen has long been an organ of interest in popular as well as medical literature. Methods: A literature (Pubmed) and historical review about splenectomy has been performed. Results: The importance of spleen and the related surgical procedure of splenectomy has been an important topic of scientific interest since the Ancient Greece culture to more modern times. Conclusions: Spleen and splenectomy have important roles in the medical literature and popular tradition. Nowadays laparoscopic splenectomy is increasingly popular and for certain indications it is considered the gold standard therapy.