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introductionstatpearls· Introduction· item NBK482235

The spleen constitutes the largest organ of the lymphatic system, located in the left hypochondriac region between the diaphragm and gastric fundus, typically spanning the ninth to 11th ribs. The organ is highly vascular, reddish-purple, and enclosed by a thin connective tissue capsule that permits limited expansion. The spleen has diaphragmatic and visceral surfaces, distinct borders, and a hilum transmitting splenic vessels, nerves, and ligamentous attachments. Visceral impressions reflect close relationships with the stomach, left kidney, colon, and pancreatic tail. Primary functions include blood filtration, immune surveillance, and sequestration of blood elements (see Image. Spleen Anatomy). The spleen is clinically significant because traumatic injury, rupture, or splenomegaly may result in life-threatening hemorrhage. Surgical management includes splenic repair, partial splenectomy based on vascular segmentation, or complete splenectomy, often performed laparoscopically when feasible. Knowledge of splenic anatomy guides operative planning and reduces the risk of iatrogenic injury to adjacent structures. Understanding splenic physiology informs postsplenectomy management, including vaccination strategies to mitigate increased susceptibility to encapsulated bacterial infections.