Liver Surgery (Hepatectomy)

This information sheet is designed to guide patients and families through recovery after liver surgery (hepatectomy). It explains what to expect, how to care for yourself at home, and when to seek medical attention.

How is the Surgery Performed?

• You are put to sleep safely: You are given a general anaesthetic so you are fully asleep and feel no pain during the operation.
• The abdomen is accessed using either keyhole cuts or a single open incision, depending on what is safest for you.
• The liver is exposed: Nearby organs are gently moved and attachments of the liver are released so the surgeon can clearly access the liver.
• The liver is assessed: The liver is examined visually and with a specialized ultrasound to locate and mark out the area of liver that contains the disease to be removed.
• Blood flow is controlled: A special occlusion device to the blood flow into the liver (Pringle Tape) is positioned and may be applied carefully to reduce bleeding from the liver.
• The diseased portion is removed by dividing liver tissue using complex instruments (CUSA, energy sealing devices, clips and ties). Small blood vessels and bile ducts that cross the liver are sealed to prevent bleeding or leakage
• The remaining liver is inspected: The healthy liver is checked for bleeding, bile leaks, and that it is functioning well.
• Drains may be placed: Small tubes may be left temporarily to drain fluid and help healing.
• The wound is closed: The incision is closed with stitches or staples and covered with adressing.

Wound Care

Your wound will be covered with a waterproof dressing. The wound completely seals itself after 48 hours, but you should keep it covered for up to 5 days to ensure adequate healing and preventing infection. You may remove the dressing on the 6 th day and leave it open to air. Mild swelling or bruising is common. You may even notice amounts of small clear discharge, which is normal. Stitches or staples are usually removed 7–14 days after surgery, although your stitches are likely to be dissolvable.

What is not normal: Severe wound pain that is over and above what you have been experiencing, redness progressively spreading around the wound, large amounts of fluid, blood or pus from the wound, gaping of the wound, or a new lump forming in the wound. If any of these changes occur – contact my rooms or after hours attend your local emergency department.

Activity and Exercise

Daily walking is encouraged. Avoid heavy lifting (>5kg), strenuous exercise, or repetitive bending or straining. Avoid driving while taking strong pain medication or while pains limits ability to apply an emergency brake. Light activities may resume after 4–6 weeks, with full recovery taking 8–12 weeks or longer.

Deep breathing and coughing exercises help prevent chest infections. Use your incentive spirometer if provided. Support your wound with a pillow when coughing or moving.

Diet and Nutrition

Eat small, frequent meals. Focus on protein-rich foods and adequate hydration. Avoid alcohol until cleared by your surgeon. Some patients may experience bloating or nausea early on.

Bowel and Bladder Changes

Constipation is common due to pain medications and reduced activity. Drink fluids, eat fibre, and use stool softeners if prescribed.

Let your doctor know if you:

• Have ongoing constipation
• Cannot pass urine
• Develop worsening abdominal bloating

Fatigue and Emotional Wellbeing

Tiredness is very common and can last several weeks to months. Pace yourself and rest when needed; gradual improvement is expected. Mood changes are also common after major surgery and usually improve with time. Seek support from my team or your GP if concerns persist.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Seek urgent medical care if you develop fever above 38°C, increasing abdominal pain or swelling, yellowing of the eyes or skin, shortness of breath, persistent vomiting, or wound problems, inability to eat or drink or sudden leg swelling or calf pain. Please contact Dr Suthananthan’s rooms if you have any concerns but after hours you should present to an emergency department.

Follow-Up and Long-Term Outlook

Most patients recover well and return to normal activities. Ongoing follow-up and surveillance depends on the underlying condition and final pathology results; Dr Suthananthan will see you soon after your surgery to discuss this and will guide you regarding further treatment, imaging, and lifestyle advice. If your diagnosis confirms cancer, chemotherapy is likely to be recommended, and you will be referred to a medical oncologist.