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Sickle Cell Disease

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Surgery

There is no surgical cure for sickle cell disease.

Some sickle cell disease complications are treated by surgery. These surgeries involve:

  • Removing the spleen (splenectomy), to prevent the trapping of too many red blood cells in the spleen (splenic sequestration).
  • Removing the gallbladder (cholecystectomy), to prevent problems caused by gallstones.
  • Draining fluid from the penis in cases of severe priapism.
  • Hip replacement, if the tissue in the hip breaks down and dies because it doesn't get enough blood (osteonecrosis).

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: January 19, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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