Ensuring safe travel for a splenectomy patient. Splenectomy, the surgical removal of the spleen, can have significant implications for a person’s health, particularly regarding the immune system. This case study explores the crucial role of pretravel medical screening for a business traveller who had undergone a splenectomy, ensuring his safety and wellbeing during a trip to West Africa, a region with unique health risks.
A 45-year-old executive worked for a multinational corporation that required him to travel internationally. Two years previously, he had undergone a splenectomy following a road traffic collision. This procedure left him without a functioning spleen, which plays a critical role in the immune system and protection against infectious diseases. His employer, aware of his medical history, arranged pretravel medical screening before his assignment in West Africa. His job role was such that he would be visiting urban areas, attending meetings in offices. There were no workplace hazards to consider, other than the geographical location.
The doctor meticulously reviewed the executive’s medical history, focusing on his splenectomy, the reason for the surgery, and post-operative complications, and any subsequent notable infections.
The doctor ensured that the executive’s vaccinations were up to date and also recommended specific vaccinations for travel to his proposed location, adding additional vaccinations specific for his medical status.
As the executive’s destination was noted to have a high risk of malaria during the rainy season, special care was given to this issue. Given the high risk of severe malaria in individuals without a spleen, the doctor discussed the importance of avoiding travelling during the rainy season if possible. After discussion the executive agreed that trips of short duration to urban areas of the destination country were acceptable to him. He was also advised of the careful attention needed to avoid mosquito bites and to take appropriate antimalarial medication.
The executive was provided with tailored advice to reduce the risk of contracting other infectious diseases: food hygiene recommendations to avoid foodborne illnesses were given, guidance for preventing diseases transmitted by biting insects was discussed, and information on hydration and prevention of sunburn was shared.
The executive’s pretravel medical screening ensured that he was well prepared for the unique health risks present in West Africa. This included appropriate vaccinations, malaria prophylaxis, and a comprehensive understanding of the health precautions required due to his condition.
The VIP was prescribed antibiotics to take with him, and a medical warning card, alerting healthcare providers to the fact that he did not have a functioning spleen. This preparation ensured a rapid response in case of illness whilst abroad.
The executive received guidance on preventing venous thromboembolism (blood clots) during travel, due to his increased risk of thrombosis post-splenectomy.
The doctor discussed with him the importance of scrupulous attention to food and water hygiene, reducing the risk of foodborne illness which could be more severe in his condition.
This case study underscores the critical importance of pretravel medical consultations, especially for individuals with underlying medical conditions that may put them at increased risk of harm whilst travelling. In this case, by addressing vaccination needs, medication requirements, and region-specific health precautions, the employer has reduced the health risks to as low as reasonably practicable for a valued member of staff travelling to a high-risk area.
It is Chiron International’s experience that with proper preparation and medical guidance, VIPs with complex medical needs can navigate their trips safely and effectively, minimising health risks, and meeting all objectives.
