Heterotopic splenic autotransplantation in a neonate with splenic rupture, leading to normal splenic function

Loss of the spleen in infants and young children frequently results in overwhelming infection. To preserve splenic function, heterotopic splenic autotransplantation after splenectomy was performed on a newborn in whom the spleen was traumatized beyond repair because of birth trauma. Postoperatively, the percentage of pitted red blood cells that accurately reflects splenic reticuloendothelial function was normal. Splenic scintigrams obtained 3 weeks after the operation showed uptake by the reimplanted tissue. The otherwise mandatory long-term antibiotic prophylaxis could be reduced to 3 weeks in the newborn. At 7 years of age, the patient has not shown any increased susceptibility to infections.