What to expect from liver resection for liver cancer

Your team uses scans and liver-function tests to plan which area can be removed safely. The surgeon may use open or keyhole surgery. The operation removes the tumour and a margin of surrounding liver tissue when appropriate, while preserving liver that can continue its work. The removed tissue is examined after surgery.

In hospital, the team monitors pain, breathing, movement, eating, the wound and liver function. A drain or catheter may be used temporarily. Feeling tired, having abdominal soreness, a smaller appetite or altered digestion is common during early recovery, and progress is usually gradual.

Give the team a complete list of medicines and supplements, and mention alcohol use, smoking, diabetes or other liver problems. Plan practical support at home before admission. After discharge, follow wound and medicine instructions, keep follow-up visits and increase walking in small steps. Do not drive, lift heavily or return to demanding work until your surgical team confirms it is suitable.

Contact your surgical team urgently if you develop a fever, worsening abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, yellow skin or eyes, unusual sleepiness or confusion, faintness, breathlessness, or increasing redness, discharge or separation at the wound. Inability to drink or pass urine also needs prompt advice. Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms warrant emergency care.

Ask how much liver is planned for removal, what your liver tests show, and whether other treatments are expected. Discuss the surgical approach, likely drains, pain relief, eating plan, activity restrictions and the exact warning signs to report after discharge.