Liver Resection Surgery

The human liver consists of two lobes: the right and the left, each subdivided into four segments. During a liver lobe resection (hepatic lobectomy), the surgeon removes the lobe where the tumor is located.

Remarkably, the liver has a unique ability to regenerate. Up to 80% of the liver can regenerate, provided the main blood vessels remain intact. However, surgeons typically avoid removing more than 50% of the liver’s initial volume. If the tumor is too large, located in an inoperable area, or the liver has cirrhosis, liver resection might not be possible, as cirrhosis hinders the liver’s ability to regenerate. Patients with diabetes, advanced cirrhosis, or low platelet counts (below 100,000) are generally not candidates for this procedure.

Liver lobe resection in Israel is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon first examines the liver and decides the type of resection needed. The procedure is open surgery, meaning the surgeon accesses the liver through an abdominal incision.

This is an anatomical liver resection, which involves removing both the tumor and its corresponding lobe, including its blood supply. The removed liver tissue is sent for histological analysis to determine the next steps of treatment.

General anesthesia.

Approximately 3–4 hours.

After surgery, the patient is transferred to a post-operative recovery room for about two hours, then moved to the intensive care unit for close monitoring for about 24 hours. Hospitalization typically lasts 1–2 weeks. The patient will have drainage tubes, an IV line for fluids, and a urinary catheter.

Patients can usually return to normal activities within 3 weeks. A medical leave of 1–1.5 months is recommended.

For 6–8 weeks after surgery, patients should avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activity, and sexual activity. If fatigue or dizziness occurs, avoid driving. The surgical site should be cleaned with soap and water twice daily for proper hygiene.

A follow-up appointment is scheduled about one month after surgery. If a fever over 38°C develops or other concerning symptoms appear, contact the surgical team or visit the emergency room for further evaluation.