What muscles are involved in a splenectomy?

During a splenectomy, several muscles may be involved in the exposure and removal of the spleen. These muscles are primarily those associated with the abdominal wall and the structures supporting the spleen. The main muscles involved are:

1. Rectus Abdominis:

- The rectus abdominis is a paired, long, flat muscle located in the anterior abdominal wall.

- It originates from the pubic symphysis and inserts into the costal cartilages of the fifth, sixth, and seventh ribs.

- During a splenectomy, the rectus abdominis is involved in the initial incision and retraction of the abdominal wall to gain access to the abdominal cavity.

2. Oblique Muscles (External and Internal):

- The external and internal oblique muscles are flat, paired muscles located in the anterolateral abdominal wall.

- The external oblique originates from the ribs and inserts into the linea alba, while the internal oblique originates from the inguinal ligament and inserts into the costal cartilages and linea alba.

- These muscles are involved in stabilizing the abdominal wall and assisting in retracting the abdominal contents during the procedure.

3. Transversus Abdominis:

- The transversus abdominis is a thin, paired muscle located deep to the external and internal obliques.

- It originates from the lumbar vertebrae, inguinal ligament, and iliac crest and inserts into the linea alba.

- The transversus abdominis contributes to abdominal wall stability and assists in retracting the abdominal viscera.

4. Diaphragm:

- The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle separating the thoracic and abdominal cavities.

- It plays a crucial role in breathing and is involved in protecting the abdominal contents from the thoracic organs.

- During a splenectomy, the diaphragm may be indirectly involved in the manipulation and retraction of the spleen as it lies in close proximity to the abdominal organs.

5. Splenic Capsule and Ligaments:

- The spleen is enveloped by a fibrous capsule, and multiple ligaments help secure it to surrounding structures.

- These ligaments include the gastrosplenic, splenorenal, and phrenicosplenic ligaments.

- During the splenectomy, the surgeon may need to divide or release these ligaments to free the spleen for removal.

It's important to note that the specific muscles involved in a splenectomy may vary slightly based on the surgical approach used (open or laparoscopic) and the individual's anatomy. The procedure should only be performed by skilled surgeons experienced in abdominal surgeries.