HPB Surgery › Liver Cancer & Tumours
Liver Cancer & Tumours
Surgical management of hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal liver metastases and other hepatic malignancies.
Overview
Liver Cancer & Liver Tumours
Liver tumours can be primary (arising from the liver itself) or secondary (metastatic, spread from another organ). Surgery — liver resection (hepatectomy) — is the most effective treatment for many liver tumours and can be curative in selected patients. Dr. Nahm has extensive subspecialty training in complex liver surgery performed at major HPB and transplant centres.
When to see a surgeon
Any patient with a liver tumour — whether primary or metastatic — should be assessed by a specialist HPB surgeon to determine eligibility for surgical resection and to coordinate multidisciplinary care.
Types of Liver Cancer & Tumours
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)
The most common primary liver cancer, usually arising in the setting of chronic liver disease or cirrhosis. Surgery (liver resection or transplantation) offers the best chance of cure.
Colorectal Liver Metastases
The most common secondary liver tumour, arising from spread of bowel cancer to the liver. Liver resection can be curative in selected patients and significantly improves survival.
Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma
A primary cancer arising from the bile ducts within the liver, requiring complex liver resection for optimal outcomes.
Other Liver Metastases
Metastases from neuroendocrine tumours, breast cancer, and other primaries may be suitable for surgical resection in certain circumstances.
Benign Liver Tumours
Including hepatic adenoma (which may require resection due to bleeding risk or malignant potential), focal nodular hyperplasia, and haemangioma.
Surgical Treatment: Liver Resection
Liver resection (hepatectomy) involves surgical removal of the portion of the liver containing the tumour. The liver has remarkable regenerative capacity, allowing removal of up to 70% of the liver in suitable patients. Dr. Nahm performs both minor and major liver resections using open, laparoscopic and robotic approaches depending on the complexity of the case.