Every patient with a liver cancer(Hepatocellular cancer-Hepatoma) should be evaluated for a resection. It is the only chance for cure other than liver transplants. Removing the tumor when localised, will rid the body of the cancer and also prevent further spread to other regions. However, not all patients are eligible for a liver resection / transplantation where other modalities of treatment such as RFA (Radiofrequency ablation), TACE (Transarterial chemoembolization), Y-90 (Yittrium 90), chemotherapy / immunotherapy etc are offered based on the suitability of patients tumour burden and overall health of the patient. Surgery remains the mainstay of treatment in all suitable patients.
Liver resection is also the main course of treatment for cholangiocarcinomas. These are tumours arising from the bile duct. They can arise either within the liver(intrahepatic) or in the bile ducts outside the liver(extrahepatic). The type of liver resection is based on the bile ducts involved and the involvement of adjacent blood vessels. In rare cases of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas liver transplant can be considered as an option of treatment.
The liver is a privileged organ in that it has the ability to regenerate if part of it is removed and this allows surgeons to operate upon it successfully. Up to about 2/3 rd of liver can be resected safely and the remaining portion of liver regenerates in about 4 to 6 weeks. In some cases if the remnant liver volume is inadequate, we can make it bigger pre surgery by doing what is called as ‘Portal vein embolization’ of the affected side so that the size of the liver, which is to be left behind gets bigger before operation allowing surgery to be performed safely. This strategy can be used in all non cirrhotic patients for liver resection when essential.
In patients with colon cancer that has spread to the liver, liver resection can cure 25 – 45% of the patients. Patients may also develop metastatic colorectal cancer to both the lungs and liver. In select patients, simultaneous resection of metastases from the lung and liver can provide significant benefit.
Other indications for liver resection are metastases from other sites such as breast, kidney, lung, selected tumors of the pancreas and small intestine and sarcomas. In well selected patients with oligo metastasis from above areas, 2-year survival rates of 90% have been obtained post surgery. Best results are seen in patients who respond to chemotherapy and have metastatic disease limited to the liver.
Liver surgery, or liver resection (hepatectomy), is a crucial procedure to remove liver tumors and prevent cancer from spreading. The liver is a privileged organ in that it has the ability to regenerate if part of it is removed, allowing surgeons to operate successfully.
Liver surgery is a potential cure for select patients diagnosed with:
Our specialized liver surgery team offers various resection techniques based on tumor size, location, and liver function
Resection of a lobe (left or right) of the liver
Removal of smaller segments to treat multiple tumors while preserving liver function
A minimally invasive approach for faster recovery and reduced complications
Our specialized liver surgery team offers various resection techniques based on tumor size, location, and liver function
Dr Ravishankar K Diddapur has been pioneering the development of laparoscopic hepatobiliary surgery in Singapore. He performed the 1 st laparoscopic liver surgery at NUH, Singapore. It is a minimally invasive surgical approach for faster recovery and reduced complications. It is usually done through 4 to 5 key hole incisions of about 1 to 2Cms each. Patients are usually up and about the next day of surgery, taking oral feeds and going to the toilet. Patients are discharged home in about 3 to 5 days based on the complexity of liver resection
Senior Consultant Single Keyhole Laparoscopic Surgeon
MBBS, M.S (Gen Surg – KEMH, Bombay), FAMS
Over 30 years of clinical experience in gastrointestinal and metabolic surgery
His clinical focus includes:
Dr. Ravi routinely performs laparoscopic (keyhole) and endoscopic procedures, which are associated with smaller incisions and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.
(Based on standard clinical outcomes for minimally invasive techniques.)
He holds a university academic appointment and is actively involved in teaching medical students and surgical trainees in Singapore, reflecting his commitment to medical education and continuous learning.
Dr. Ravi is affiliated with various international and local professional bodies including:
Our friendly team is looking forward to serving you. For urgent enquiries and appointment requests, please call the clinic directly.
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