The spleen is the second most frequently injured abdominal organ in children. This is because it is not protected by the rib cage.
The spleen is located in the left upper side of the abdomen, just under the rib cage. The spleen is an important part of the body’s defence against certain bacteria and infection. It also filters blood and removes old blood cells and other debris.
Spleen injuries are graded according to the depth of the contusion or the laceration, from grade I (minor) to grade IV (shattering of the spleen).