What is Liver Surgery?
Liver surgery refers to a group of surgical procedures performed to treat various conditions affecting the liver, such as tumors, cysts, or liver damage. It is often necessary when medical treatment alone cannot resolve the problem. Depending on the patient’s condition, surgery may involve removing part of the liver, repairing damage, or even preparing for liver transplantation.
Why is Liver Surgery Needed?
The liver is one of the most vital organs in the body, responsible for detoxification, digestion, and metabolism. Surgery may be required for:
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Benign Liver Tumors (hemangiomas, adenomas)
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Malignant Tumors (primary liver cancer, metastatic cancer)
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Liver Cysts or Abscesses
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Liver Trauma or Injury
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Bile Duct Obstruction
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Preparation for Liver Transplant
Types of Liver Surgery
At Büyük Anadolu Hospital, our surgical team provides several types of liver operations, tailored to each patient:
Liver Resection (Hepatectomy)
Removal of the diseased part of the liver. This procedure is performed to eliminate tumors, cysts, or damaged tissue while preserving healthy liver function. The liver has a remarkable ability to regenerate, allowing patients to recover effectively after partial resection.
Laparoscopic Liver Surgery
A minimally invasive option for smaller lesions. This technique is performed through a few small incisions using a camera and specialized instruments, allowing surgeons to operate with precision while reducing pain, blood loss, and recovery time. Patients generally return to normal activities much faster compared to open surgery.
Radiofrequency or Microwave Ablation
A non-surgical procedure that uses heat energy to destroy small liver tumors. Guided by imaging techniques such as ultrasound or CT, a thin probe is inserted into the tumor. The heat generated by radiofrequency or microwave waves effectively eliminates cancer cells while preserving healthy liver tissue. This method is ideal for patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery.
Liver Cyst Removal
A surgical procedure to remove fluid-filled cysts from the liver. Most cysts are benign but may cause discomfort, pain, or pressure if they grow large. The operation can be performed laparoscopically or through open surgery, depending on the cyst’s size and location. Removal prevents recurrence and helps restore normal liver function.
Bile Duct Surgery
A surgical procedure performed to treat blockages, narrowing, or injuries in the bile ducts, which carry bile from the liver to the intestine. Depending on the condition, surgery may involve removing obstructions, repairing damaged ducts, or reconstructing the bile flow. The goal is to restore normal bile drainage, relieve symptoms such as jaundice or pain, and prevent liver damage.
How is Liver Surgery Performed?
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Surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia.
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Duration depends on the procedure: from 2 to 6 hours.
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Minimally invasive (laparoscopic) methods are preferred when possible.
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Open surgery may be required for large or complex liver conditions.
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Hospital stay: 5–7 days, depending on the complexity.
Recovery After Liver Surgery
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Initial recovery: 2–4 weeks, depending on the type of procedure.
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Full recovery: 6–8 weeks for major surgeries.
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Temporary fatigue, mild pain, and digestive changes may occur.
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Regular follow-ups and imaging tests are part of the aftercare.
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Patients receive personalized nutrition and lifestyle guidelines to protect liver health.
Possible Risks & Our Preventive Measures
| Possible Risks | Our Preventive Measures |
|---|---|
| Bleeding during/after surgery | Advanced surgical techniques & blood management |
| Infection | Strict sterilization & preventive antibiotics |
| Bile leakage | Careful intraoperative monitoring & drainage if needed |
| Slow liver regeneration | Regular follow-ups & nutritional support |
| Rare complications (clots, failure) | Intensive care monitoring & rapid intervention |
Why Choose Büyük Anadolu Hospital for Liver Surgery?
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Expert surgeons specialized in hepatobiliary and gastrointestinal surgery
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Minimally invasive approaches for faster recovery and less discomfort
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Accredited hospital operating under international healthcare standards
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Multilingual support team dedicated to assisting foreign patients
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Holistic care including surgery, recovery, and personalized lifestyle guidance
Liver Surgery Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, in experienced hands, liver surgery is safe. The liver has a strong regenerative capacity, meaning it can regrow after partial removal.
On average, patients stay in Turkey for 10–14 days, including hospital stay and the initial recovery period. This ensures safe post-operative monitoring and optimal recovery before returning home.
Not usually. The liver can regenerate after partial resection, so a transplant is only required in very advanced or severe cases.
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