Improving outcomes in patients with reduced splenic function

Although splenic function is not required to sustain life, in its absence an individual is at elevated risk of life-threatening infection and clots (thromboembolism). Current management strategies focus mainly on preventing the infectious complications associated with impaired splenic function and do not prevent thromboembolism. The aim of this thesis is to evaluate the current management and investigate novel strategies in order to optimise and improve outcomes, both infectious and thromboembolic, for individuals with impaired splenic function.