Hepatectomy procedure steps explained

Before surgery, scans map the tumour, blood vessels and bile ducts. In the operating room, an anaesthetic team gives general anaesthesia and monitors breathing, circulation and temperature. The surgeon reaches the liver through an open incision or keyhole approach when appropriate.

The liver tissue is divided with techniques that control blood vessels and bile ducts. The tumour and a planned margin of tissue are removed, then the cut surface is checked for bleeding or bile leakage. A specimen goes to the laboratory, and drains may be placed before the incision is closed.

Follow the hospital’s instructions about food, drink and regular medicines. Tell the team about blood thinners, diabetes, allergies, breathing problems and prior abdominal surgery. Ask whether you need support with transport, meals, stairs or childcare after discharge.

The operation may be used for liver cancer, bowel cancer affecting the liver or liver metastases. In selected situations, tumour ablation is another local treatment. The liver resection page gives more background on the operation and its aims.

Call the surgical team promptly for fever, worsening pain, repeated vomiting, fresh bleeding, increasing redness or fluid at the wound, yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, confusion, chest pain or difficulty breathing. A drain that suddenly stops working or fills with unusual fluid also warrants advice.

Ask which approach is planned and why, what tissue may be removed, whether a drain is likely, how pain will be controlled, and when the pathology report should be available. Find out which medicines to pause and what movement is encouraged after discharge.