When liver cancer is diagnosed, doctors will consider planning and selecting the appropriate treatment method individually based on the condition of the disease and the patient’s health. The main treatments are divided into
- Chemotherapy treatment
- Radiation therapy, and
- Surgery
Surgery for liver cancer is considered the most effective treatment, especially in cases where lesions are found in the early stages of cancer. Surgery increases the chances of a complete cure.
There are 2 main types of liver cancer surgery as follows:
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Partial liver resection surgery
This method is possible when the cancerous tumor is detected at an early stage, the tumor is not large, and there is enough normal or healthy liver tissue remaining. Additionally, the remaining liver function after surgery must be sufficient for the patient to continue living. Partial liver resection can be performed in 2 ways:
- Open abdominal surgery is the standard surgical method, involving an incision on the abdominal skin. It is usually used when the tumor is too large for laparoscopic surgery or when the tumor is located deep and not suitable for laparoscopic surgery.
- Laparoscopic surgery involves making 3-5 small holes in the abdomen to insert a camera and surgical instruments. This method is often used for liver cancer tumors that are small and accessible without other organs obstructing the view. The advantages of laparoscopic liver cancer surgery include smaller wounds, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays, but it comes with higher costs compared to open abdominal surgery.
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Liver transplantation surgery
This treatment is usually used in cases where the patient has a tumor along with severe cirrhosis. The tumor size and quantity must not exceed specified criteria. The doctor will remove the entire liver and transplant a donated liver as a replacement. Patients who undergo liver transplantation must take immunosuppressive drugs to prevent rejection of the new liver and complications.
When choosing the surgical method for liver cancer treatment, doctors will consider the following factors:
- Physical condition, strength, health, and other diseases the patient has
- Stage and severity of the cancer
- Size, number, and location of the tumors
- Whether the remaining healthy liver tissue is sufficient for continued living
How much of the liver can be removed?
Naturally, part of the liver can be removed, but the remaining liver must be sufficient for living. In healthy individuals, up to 75% of the liver can be removed while still allowing a return to normal life. However, in patients with cirrhosis, liver function is reduced, limiting the amount of liver that can be removed.
How to prepare before liver cancer surgery
- 1 week before surgery, consume enough protein to help the body recover well after surgery
- Avoid food and drink at least 6-8 hours before surgery
- Undergo a health check-up before surgery
Postoperative care after liver cancer surgery for recovery and reducing recurrence risk
Regardless of the surgical method used for liver cancer treatment, it is recommended to control risk factors after surgery as follows:
- Avoid alcohol consumption
- Avoid taking herbal medicines without consulting a doctor
- Eat cooked, clean, and balanced meals with all 5 food groups, especially sufficient protein
- Exercise regularly but avoid heavy exercise and lifting heavy objects for 2-4 weeks after surgery
- If hepatitis virus is detected, strictly follow the prescribed medication regimen
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor post-surgery condition
