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A.) LIVER: This is the "kitchen" of the body. The liver metabolizes proteins, vitamins, nutrients and clotting functions. It is a solid organ located in the right upper abdomen. A major function of the liver is to generate bile (waste) which flows through a system of tubes (ducts) which enter the intestine suspended from the liver and joining the main duct system is the gallbladder. Surgery on the liver may be needed for tumors, bile duct problems or trauma. This is usually done in an open method although needle biopsies through the skin with x-ray control is frequently done to avoid surgery and to obtain diagnoses.
B.) SPLEEN: This bean-shaped organ about softball-size is located in the left upper abdomen tucked behind and protected by the rib cage. This solid organ serves as a filter for the blood-removing old, aging red blood cells and other foreign material (bacteria, viruses). Although usually very efficient, the spleen sometimes overreacts or becomes malfunctional. When this occurs it may filter/capture too many platelets (used for clotting) causing a low platelet state (Thrombo cytopenia) wherein patients may bleed spontaneously. Thus, the spleen may have to be removed for hematologic (blood disease) reasons, for trauma, or for tumor. This is done traditionally by the open method although laparoscopy is also an option (except in trauma and in very large-sized spleens.)
C.) PANCREAS: This organ is responsible for the production of digestive enzymes (amylase, lipase) for starch and fat as well as the production and secretion of insulin. The pancreas is protected by its deep position in the abdomen. It is very sensitive to trauma, chemical irritation (alcohol, drugs) and elevated fats in the bloodstream. When inflamed the resulting pancreatitis can be a very severe irritation requiring hospitalization and possibly intensive care. Surgery is usually performed for tumors of the pancreas, and the side effects of inflammation (ie: pain, abscess, cyst formation). Surgery is usually the last option in pancreatic diseases (except for tumors) and is difficult, has a high complication rate and is usually done by way of the open method.
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