Liver resection surgery, also known as hepatectomy, is a surgical procedure in which a portion of the liver is removed. The liver is a vital organ responsible for numerous functions, including filtering toxins, metabolizing drugs, producing bile, and aiding in digestion.
Liver resection is commonly performed to treat various conditions, including:
During the liver resection procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen and carefully removes the affected portion of the liver. The remaining healthy liver tissue can regenerate over time, allowing the liver to continue its essential functions.
Liver resection is a major surgery that requires a hospital stay and a period of recovery. Potential risks and complications associated with liver resection surgery include bleeding, infection, bile leakage, damage to nearby organs, and impaired liver function. The feasibility of the surgery depends on the extent of the disease, the location of the tumor, the patient’s overall health, and the available liver reserve.
Hepatectomy involves extensive surgery on your liver, a necessary organ for life. It has a high risk of potential complications and calls for a high level of competence. However, when it succeeds, liver resection might provide you — or the recipient of your liver donation — a fresh lease on life.
The surgery can take 2 to 5 hours. You will probably stay in the hospital for 5 to 14 days after surgery. You will need to take it easy for 4 to 8 weeks at home. Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety.
Laparoscopic hepatectomy is a safe procedure for cancer patients.
Weight reduction following liver resection is typically a side effect of substantial dietary modifications that are required, and it shouldn't be considered as a favorable outcome of the procedure. Dietary adjustments are made to support the healing process and should return to normal as the patient heals.