About Hepatocellular Cancer
Key Highlights
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Offers the best chance for a cure in eligible patients with early-stage liver cancer.Performed by specialized surgeons with expertise in liver anatomy and complex cancer operations.Can be performed using minimally invasive techniques (laparoscopic or robotic) in suitable cases, leading to smaller incisions and potentially faster recovery.Aims to preserve maximum healthy liver tissue to maintain organ function.Often part of a multimodal treatment plan coordinated with medical and radiation oncologists.
Who is this surgery for?
- Diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) confined to the liver.
- Tumors that are resectable, meaning they can be completely removed with adequate margins.
- Patients with well-preserved liver function (often Child-Pugh class A).
- No evidence of major blood vessel invasion or distant metastasis (spread).
- Good overall health and performance status to tolerate major surgery.
- As a bridge to liver transplantation in some cases.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive evaluation including blood tests, imaging (CT/MRI), and sometimes a biopsy.
- Assessment of liver function and reserve.
- Cardiac and pulmonary clearance to ensure fitness for major surgery.
- Nutritional optimization; patients may need to follow a specific diet.
- Discontinuation of certain medications, especially blood thinners, as advised by the surgeon.
- Pre-operative counseling to discuss the procedure, risks, and recovery expectations.
Risks & possible complications
- Bleeding during or after surgery.
- Infection at the incision site or within the abdomen.
- Liver failure, especially if the remaining liver tissue is insufficient.
- Bile leakage from the cut surface of the liver.
- Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism).
- Pneumonia or other respiratory complications.
- Recurrence of cancer in the remaining liver.
- General anesthesia risks.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial recovery in the hospital with close monitoring of liver function and pain management.
- Gradual advancement from liquids to a normal, often liver-friendly, diet.
- Early mobilization to prevent blood clots and pneumonia.
- Incision care instructions and monitoring for signs of infection.
- Follow-up appointments for wound checks, imaging, and blood tests to monitor liver function and check for recurrence.
- Gradual return to normal activities; heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks.
- Ongoing surveillance with the oncology team is crucial.
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Typical hospital stay: 5-10 days
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Expected recovery time: 6-12 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering hepatocellular cancer in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with surgical oncology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform hepatocellular cancer. MediFyr helps you compare surgical oncologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for hepatocellular cancer compare across other countries where we have data.
Olivia Sharma, a 58-year-old former school...
Olivia Sharma, a 58-year-old former school principal, had always been health-conscious. Her world shifted when routine bloodwork for her annual check-up revealed elevated liver enzymes. Further investigation, prompted by persistent fatigue and a dull ache in her upper right abdomen, led to an ultrasound and a biopsy. The diagnosis was a shock: a single, 4.5 cm hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Olivia had unknowingly lived with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease for years, a legacy of a demanding career and poor stress-eating habits. Her surgical oncologist, Dr. Chen, recommended a laparoscopic liver resection. He explained it was the best chance for a cure, given the tumor's size and location. The surgery was successful, performed with minimally invasive techniques. Olivia's recovery in the hospital was challenging, marked by pain management and regaining mobility, but she was diligent. At her three-month follow-up, a CT scan showed no evidence of disease. Emotionally, Olivia moved from initial disbelief and fear, worrying she had failed her own body, to a profound sense of gratitude and a renewed commitment to mindfulness and health. She now volunteers to support other cancer patients, channeling her experience into empathy.
Surgical Oncologists for Hepatocellular Cancer
Explore experienced surgical oncologists who regularly perform hepatocellular cancer and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 9 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar
- 11 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 39 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 20 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore