Does a surgical oncologist perform liver resection?

This operation is also called hepatectomy. Depending on local services and the condition being treated, it may be carried out by a surgical oncologist, a hepatobiliary surgeon, or a team with both types of expertise.

The operation removes the affected portion while leaving enough functioning liver behind. The plan is shaped by the tumour's location, its relationship to major blood vessels and bile ducts, the condition of the remaining liver, and whether disease is present elsewhere.

Cross-sectional imaging and blood tests help the team map the procedure. The surgeon may use an open or minimally invasive approach. A multidisciplinary discussion can coordinate surgery with oncology treatment, radiology and liver care when those services are needed.

Gather your scan images and reports, pathology information, recent blood results and full medicine list. Mention hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, previous liver procedures, alcohol use, bleeding problems and past reactions to anaesthesia.

Ask what part of the liver is planned for removal, whether another treatment is expected before or after surgery, and how liver function will be assessed. Follow personalised directions about medicines, fasting, exercise, nutrition and arrangements for help during recovery.

Call the surgical service without delay for fever, worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, increasing wound redness, drainage, new yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, or a rapidly enlarging abdomen. Emergency assessment is needed for chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, collapse, confusion or bleeding that will not stop.

Useful questions include why resection is being recommended, how much liver will remain, which surgical approach is planned, and what could change the plan. Discuss pain relief, drains, eating and walking after surgery, follow-up blood tests, pathology review and whom to contact once you are home.