A patient with abdominal injuries from a motor vehicle crash is scheduled for surgery to remove the spleen. What bodily function will be affected by the removal of this organ?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Removal of old red blood cells from circulation. The spleen plays a crucial role in filtering and removing old or damaged red blood cells from circulation. When the spleen is removed, this function is compromised, leading to a decrease in the body's ability to clear out these cells efficiently. This can result in an increased risk of anemia and other complications related to the buildup of old red blood cells in the bloodstream.
A: Filtration of waste products - While the spleen does play a role in filtering blood, its primary function is related to red blood cells, not waste products.
C: Clearance of mucous in the tracheobronchial tree - This function is primarily carried out by the respiratory system, particularly the cilia and mucous membranes in the airways, not the spleen.
D: Facilitation of glucose to be used by the cell for energy - This function is primarily related to the pancreas and insulin production, not the