TREATMENT
How Is It Done?
There are two ways to do liver resection: laparoscopically or in an open fashion. Laparoscopically uses small incisions and a fiber-optic camera, while open fashion is done by making a large cut in a patient’s abdomen.
A partial or the whole part of the liver can be removed, depending on the condition. If the liver is partially damaged, that damaged part is removed, leaving only the healthy part.
If the whole liver is damaged, a liver transplant will be conducted. In a matter of weeks, the successfully resected liver will regenerate itself and adapt to your blood vessels and body.
Furthermore, patients are obliged to have general anesthesia and painkillers while preparing for liver resection.
What Can You Expect After The Surgery?
The operation may last for two to five hours. You may also be asked to remain in the hospital for a while so that they can monitor your condition.
Furthermore, a follow-up check-up is necessary to ensure the safety of your health. The doctor may also monitor the possibility of developing liver cancer or the chances of a tumor returning. Also, chemotherapy or radiation treatments may also be done, depending on your condition.
When Is Liver Resection Not Recommended?
Liver resection is not recommended to be done if:
- Cancer has spread to most parts of the liver.
- Other liver diseases like cirrhosis are present.
- The cancer is close to the portal vein, which is the major vein that brings blood to the liver.
- The cancer is near the bile ducts or major blood vessels of the liver.
Risks
After having a liver resection, you may possibly experience some complications, like:
- Bleeding
- Scar tissue from the surgery
- Infection