Liver Resection (Hepatectomy) Explained for Patients
What is a Liver Resection?
Liver resection, also known as a **hepatectomy**, is a surgery to remove part of the liver. This procedure is often used to treat liver cancer or tumors that have spread to the liver (such as colorectal liver metastases). The liver has a unique ability to regenerate, meaning it can grow back after part of it is removed.
Why is it Done?
Liver resection is performed when cancer is confined to one part of the liver, and removing the affected section can stop the spread of the disease. It’s used to treat conditions like:
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of liver cancer.
- Colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM), where cancer from the colon or rectum spreads to
the liver.
- Cholangiocarcinoma, a rare bile duct cancer that can affect the liver
What Happens During the Surgery?
Preparation: The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, meaning the patient will be asleep throughout the operation.
Incision: The surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen to access the liver. In some cases, the procedure can be performed laparoscopically, using smaller incisions and a camera.
Resection: The surgeon carefully identifies and removes the diseased part of the liver. This may involve removing a segment, lobe, or a larger portion of the liver, depending on the location and size of the tumour.
Control of Blood Vessels: The liver has a rich blood supply, so the surgeon will carefully control the blood vessels to prevent bleeding during the operation.
Closure: After removing the affected portion, the surgeon closes the incision with stitches or staples.
Recovery and Post-Surgery Care
Hospital Stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for 5-7 days after a liver resection. Monitoring is necessary to ensure proper healing and liver function.
Regeneration: The liver will start to regenerate soon after surgery, and in many cases, it can grow back to near its original size within a few months
Risks: Like any major surgery, liver resection carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, and bile leakage. However, it is generally a safe and effective treatment for localised liver cancers
Overall: Liver resection is a crucial treatment for various liver conditions, offering patients a chance at long-term recovery. Although the surgery can be complex, the liver’s regenerative capacity makes it possible for many patients to resume normal life after recovery.