What is a Hepatectomy?

A hepatectomy involves removing part of the liver that contains a tumour or damaged tissue. The remaining liver grows back over time, helping restore normal function.

In simple words, the hepatectomy surgery removes the unhealthy part of the liver while keeping enough healthy liver tissue to support recovery and regeneration.

Why is the Hepatectomy Procedure Needed?

A hepatectomy is often recommended when a liver tumour needs to be removed or when an abnormal growth is affecting liver function. Removing the affected portion helps prevent progression of disease, reduces symptoms, and can improve survival outcomes.

Common Reasons and Key Conditions Treated

• Primary liver cancer, such as hepatocellular carcinoma.
• Secondary (metastatic) liver tumours.
• Benign liver cysts or adenomas can also cause symptoms.
• Liver trauma requiring surgical repair.
• Certain congenital or structural liver abnormalities.

Types of Hepatectomy / Procedure Variations

Different types of hepatectomy are performed depending on the tumour location, size, and extent of liver involvement.

• Partial hepatectomy: Removal of a single segment or a small liver portion.
• Lobectomy (right or left): Removal of an entire lobe of the liver.
• Extended hepatectomy: Removes more than one lobe when necessary for complete treatment.
• Anatomical hepatectomy: Based on natural liver segments for precise removal.
• Non-anatomical hepatectomy: Removes tissue around the tumour without focusing on segment boundaries.

Why Choose Manipal Hospitals for Hepatectomy?

Manipal Hospitals provides advanced hepatobiliary surgical care supported by multidisciplinary teams, modern operating theaters, and enhanced recovery pathways. Patients receive tailored treatment plans ensuring safety, clarity, and consistent support.

• Experienced liver surgeons trained in open and minimally invasive approaches.
• High-end imaging and navigation tools for accurate surgical planning.
• Specialised anaesthesia and critical care teams for major liver surgery.
• Comprehensive rehabilitation and nutrition support.
• We provide dedicated international patient coordination to ensure smooth treatment journeys.

Indications for Hepatectomy

A hepatectomy may be recommended when:

• A tumour is limited to one area of the liver and can be safely removed.
• Benign lesions are causing discomfort or risk of complications.
• The liver has enough healthy tissue to regenerate after surgery.
• Symptoms or imaging suggest worsening disease.
• Other treatments such as ablation or embolisation are not suitable.

Who Should Avoid or Delay Hepatectomy?

Some conditions may require caution or further evaluation before surgery.

• Severe liver cirrhosis that limits regeneration.
• Extensive tumours affecting both lobes.
• Severe heart or lung disease increases anesthesia risk.
• Active infections requiring treatment first.
• Poor nutritional status needing improvement before surgery.

Preparing for Hepatectomy

• CT or MRI scans to assess liver structure and tumour location.
• Blood tests to evaluate liver function, clotting, and overall fitness.
• Discussion about surgical risks, expectations, and recovery timelines.
• Fasting and medication adjustments before surgery.
• Assistance for international patients with travel and accommodation planning.

What Happens During the Hepatectomy Procedure?

The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. Depending on the approach, the surgeon makes an incision or uses minimally invasive techniques to reach the liver. The affected portion is carefully removed while preserving vital blood vessels and bile ducts.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

• Admission and final pre-operative assessments.
• Administration of general anaesthesia.
• Careful access to the liver using open or laparoscopic methods.
• Identification of segments to be removed.
• Resection of the target area using the planned hepatectomy procedure steps.
• Bleeding control and checking of bile ducts.
• Completion of the procedure and transfer to recovery.

Recovery After Hepatectomy

Recovery involves close monitoring, pain control, and a gradual return to movement and eating. Many patients remain in hospital for several days to allow the liver to stabilise. Fatigue, mild discomfort, and reduced appetite are common early symptoms but improve as healing progresses.

Long-term recovery focuses on rest, nutrition, and follow-up imaging to assess liver regeneration and treatment success.

Risks & Complications

Possible risks include bleeding, infection, bile leakage, fluid collection, or delayed liver function. These risks are managed through careful surgical planning, advanced monitoring, and postoperative support.

Benefits of Hepatectomy

• Effective removal of tumours or diseased tissue.
• The procedure also preserves healthy liver segments.
• Potential cure for selected early-stage cancers.
• Improved symptoms and long-term liver function.
• Minimally invasive options offering shorter recovery where suitable.

What is the Cost of Hepatectomy at Manipal Hospitals?

The cost of hepatectomy varies based on tumour complexity, surgical approach, investigations, and length of hospital stay. Manipal Hospitals offers competitive pricing compared with many Western and Gulf countries, giving international patients access to advanced liver surgery at more affordable rates.

A personalised estimate includes surgeon fees, imaging, anaesthesia, hospital stay, and follow-up care.

International Patient Support at Manipal Hospitals

International patients receive full assistance, including medical file evaluation, visa support, airport transfers, interpreter services, accommodation coordination, and structured follow-up arrangements, ensuring a comfortable and well-guided experience throughout treatment.