Case: Spleenectomy with postoperative convulsion and impaired consciousness in a case of Thalassemia

A boy of 11 years was suffering from Thalassemia major. He was advised for spleenectomy as the huge spleen was causing respiratory embarrassment.

He was operated without any trouble. But he developed convulsion in the mid night which was focal in the right hand. He was given anticonvulsants and Inj Calcium. His electrolytes and the calcium show normal level. His convulsion was continuing intermittently. His convulsion become generalized and he GCS falls to 8. He was given Inj phenobarbitone and Sodium Valproate orally.

Convulsions were controlled and his consciousness was gradually improving. His speech was initially slurred which was also later improved.

We had a plan for CT scan but as the patient improved completely patient took the discharge.

We level the case as Thalassemia major with post operative convulsion due to emboli.

Dr. Badrud Doza
Dr. Shoma Chowdhury
Related link:
1) Thalassemia Foundation
2)International Thalasemia Foundation