When is liver resection recommended for liver cancer?

A resection removes the section of liver containing the tumour, aiming to leave a safe margin and enough working liver. The team assesses tumour size and position, blood-vessel involvement, liver function and whether cirrhosis or portal hypertension is present.

Scans and blood tests help map the tumour and assess the liver. The number and position of tumours, overall health and any spread outside the liver also affect the options. If resection is not suitable, other liver-directed treatments may be discussed.

Ask whether a liver surgeon and specialist cancer team have reviewed your scans. Discuss how much liver would remain, whether cirrhosis changes the plan, and which blood tests or imaging are still needed. Give the team a complete list of medicines, supplements and previous liver problems.

Explore [Liver Resection](/treatments/surgical-oncology/liver-resection/) and the [Liver Cancer](/conditions/liver-cancer/) overview before making decisions.

Get urgent medical advice for worsening yellow skin or eyes, confusion, vomiting blood, black stools, severe abdominal pain, fever, fainting or rapidly increasing abdominal swelling. After surgery, worsening wound problems or new shortness of breath also require prompt assessment.

Can the tumour be removed while preserving enough liver? How does my liver function affect the operation? Is cirrhosis or portal pressure present? What alternatives are available if resection is unsuitable? What will recovery involve?