What is Liver Surgery?
Liver surgery is a critical intervention that involves the removal of part of the liver to treat various liver conditions, such as liver cancer, benign liver tumours, and other life-threatening diseases. The liver is a vital organ that performs essential functions, including detoxifying the blood, producing proteins, and aiding digestion. Liver surgery is often necessary to preserve or restore liver function from liver disease, reduce symptoms, and improve a patient’s overall health and quality of life.
Types of Liver Surgery
Liver Resection
Liver resection is a surgical procedure where a portion of the liver is removed. This surgery is typically recommended when a tumour or cyst is located in one part of the liver, but the rest of the liver is healthy. The liver has a remarkable ability to regenerate, so after resection, the remaining liver tissue can grow back and resume its normal functions.
Liver resections are commonly performed when liver tumours are benign (non-cancerous) or cancerous (malignant), particularly when the cancer is localised and can be safely removed. The procedure may be performed openly (with a large incision) or laparoscopically, if appropriate (using small incisions and a camera). The latter, known as minimally invasive surgery, offers quicker recovery times and fewer complications compared to traditional surgery.
When is Surgery Necessary?
Liver surgery becomes necessary when other treatment options have failed or when the liver condition is too severe to be managed with medication alone. The following conditions typically require liver surgery:
- Liver Cancer or Tumours: When liver cancer (primary liver cancer originates in the liver or metastatic cancer – when it originates from other organs, e.g. the colon) is diagnosed, surgery may be required to remove the tumour(s). Liver resection is typically recommended if the tumour is confined to one area of the liver and the remaining liver is healthy.
- Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis is the scarring of the liver tissue, often caused by chronic liver diseases like alcohol abuse, hepatitis, or fatty liver disease. It can reduce the ability of the liver to recover, and therefore, liver surgery may not be possible.
- Pancreatic Cancer: In some cases, patients with pancreatic cancer that has spread to the liver may require liver resection to remove metastatic tumours.
- Benign Tumours or Cysts: Non-cancerous liver tumours or cysts can cause discomfort, pain, and other complications, making surgery necessary to improve symptoms or prevent future complications.
Liver surgery is complex and carries risks, but it is only recommended when the benefits outweigh the risks. A thorough evaluation by a liver specialist is essential to determine whether surgery is the most appropriate course of treatment.
What to Expect Before and After Liver Surgery
Before Surgery
Before undergoing liver surgery, patients will need a comprehensive evaluation that typically includes:
- Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI, or ultrasound to assess the size, location, and extent of the tumour or damage in the liver.
- Blood tests to evaluate liver function and ensure that the patient is in good health before surgery.
- Consultations with a surgeon who will explain the details of the surgery, expected recovery times, potential complications, and the long-term management plan post-surgery.
After Surgery
Recovery after liver surgery depends on the type of procedure performed. After a liver resection, patients can typically expect to stay in the hospital for several days. The recovery period usually lasts about 6-12 weeks, and patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity during this time. Follow-up visits will be necessary to monitor liver function and ensure that the liver is regenerating properly.
Risks and Complications
Like all surgeries, liver surgery carries risks, including:
- Infection or bleeding
- Digestive issues, as the liver plays a key role in digestion and bile production
- Liver Failure
These risks can be minimised with careful pre-surgery evaluation, skilled surgical techniques, and close monitoring during recovery.
Liver surgery is a life-saving procedure that offers hope to patients suffering from liver disease, cancer, or other serious conditions. Liver surgery can significantly improve a patient’s health, alleviate symptoms, and provide an opportunity for a longer, healthier life. If you are facing liver surgery, it’s important to consult with a liver specialist who can guide you through the process, assess your condition, and develop the best treatment plan for you.
Medical Information Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for personalised advice regarding liver surgery.
