Laparoscopic / Minimally invasive liver surgery ( Hepatectomy or Liver Resection )

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Major Liver resection / hepatectomy for liver cancer and benign tumors is considered as one of the most challenging gastrointestinal & pancreatic surgery. While laparoscopic surgery / Minimally invasive surgery has settled as a routine for many other abdominal surgeries like gall bladder, appendix, colon, spleen etcetera; laparoscopic hepatectomy is still considered to be reserved for few specialist surgeons and centres in the world. We are proud to say that we are part of this select group of surgeons performing laparoscopic liver surgery in appropriately selected patients. We would like to showcase one such patient who recently underwent a laparoscopic liver resection with us.

A 30 year old lady presented to us with recurrent abdominal pain due to a liver tumor. Patient was thoroughly investigated with CT & MRI scans. Tumor markers like AFP, Ca19-9 & CEA were done. All tests pointed to a benign liver tumor. Since there was no ambiguity in imaging diagnosis, a biopsy was avoided and decision to proceed with surgery was taken. The patient was fit for surgery and tumor location was ideal for a laparoscopic surgery wherein the tumor was removed along with a small margin of liver. Patient was discharged by 6th postoperative day.

Laparoscopic liver surgery is ideal in small, peripherally located tumors. However can be done even for large deep seated tumors depending upon surgeon experience.