Liver Surgery – What to Expect

The little is one of the most important organs in the body, responsible for filtering blood and detoxifying. However, under certain circumstances, the liver or some suction thereof must be removed from the body. But what exactly does the liver do? Why would the liver need to be removed? And what should you expect from liver surgery and recovery?

The Role of the Liver

The liver is located on the right side of the abdomen underneath the rib cage. The primary responsibility of the liver is blood filtration and chemical detoxification or absorption. Additional proteins and enzymes are also created in the liver. Drugs, including painkillers, some supplements, and alcohol are all processed by the liver. In addition, bile that is stored in the gallbladder is created by the liver. Bile is used in digestion and breaks down fats in order to allow them to be absorbed for use by the body.

When the Liver Must be Removed

There are many conditions that can seriously affect the effectiveness of the liver. Overexposure to chemicals or drugs can, over time, slow down and weaken the liver. Viral infections, such as hepatitis, can also seriously weaken the liver. One of the most common circumstances that require liver surgery is the presence of cancer. Anytime cancer is present within one section of the body, there is a threat of metastasis, or spreading of cancer. Gallstones can also lodge within the liver and cause obstruction, requiring surgical intervention. There are a few key considerations to be taken into account before liver surgery is suggested, though. Because the liver is so essential to many necessary functions, as much of the liver should stay in the body as possible. In addition, people with weakened immune systems may have difficulty recovering from surgery as demanding as liver surgery can be.

Surgery and Recovery

Before deciding that liver surgery is a necessity, a doctor will most likely want to perform a thorough medical examination and discuss your needs. For example, your doctor will likely want to know about your current medications, diet, and exercise regimen. Because of the critical nature of the liver, your doctor will want to be sure that this is the best course of action. Prior to the surgery, your surgeon will most likely advise you to avoid food and drink within the few hours before the surgery. During the surgery itself, we will make a small incision in the abdomen and remove as little of the liver as possible. One of the most important things to consider when selecting a surgeon is experience. We have first-hand experience with liver surgery and know exactly what to do.

After the surgery has been completed, it is usually expected that the doctor will want to keep close supervision on your recovery. The average and expected recovery time in-house is only around a week, but it will take a few weeks until you feel the same. Some things, such as strenuous physical exercise and heavy lifting, should be avoided to limit the risk of incision site agitation. Your surgeon will likely give you specific recommendations about your diet and intake. After losing a section of the liver, your tolerance of medications, alcohol, and other drugs will change. It will be important to discuss your needs with your doctor and communicate regularly.

Does your liver need to be removed? Talk to the best surgeons in NYC for a consultation today.

646-846-1136

For more information, visit our website: LenoxHillSurgeons.com

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References:

https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/about-your-liver-surgery

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/liver-cancer/treating/surgery.html

https://surgery.ucsf.edu/conditions–procedures/liver-resection.aspx