Name of the Procedure:

• Hepatectomy, Resection of Liver; Total Left Lobectomy
• Also known as: Left Lobe Liver Resection, Left Hepatectomy

Summary

Hepatectomy, specifically a total left lobectomy, is a surgical procedure where the left lobe of the liver is completely removed. This section of the liver can be taken out without causing liver failure, as the remaining liver tissue can compensate for its loss.

Purpose

This procedure is done to remove liver tumors, cysts, or diseased tissue that can lead to severe health problems if left untreated. The goal is to eliminate the diseased portions while preserving as much healthy liver tissue as possible to maintain liver function.

Indications

• Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, metastases)
• Benign liver tumors (adenomas, hemangiomas)
• Localized liver infections or abscesses
• Severe liver disease confined to the left lobe

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 8 hours prior to surgery.
• Discontinuing certain medications as advised by the doctor.
• Undergoing a series of diagnostic tests such as blood tests, imaging studies (MRI, CT scans), and liver function tests.
• Preoperative assessment including physical examination and anesthesia evaluation.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is administered general anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the abdomen to access the liver.
3. The surgeon carefully isolates the left lobe of the liver from surrounding tissues.
4. Blood vessels and bile ducts connected to the left lobe are clamped and divided.
5. The left lobe is surgically removed.
6. The remaining liver tissue and bile ducts are carefully reattached, if necessary.
7. The incision is closed using sutures or staples, and a drain may be placed to remove excess fluids.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 2 to 5 hours depending on the complexity.

Setting

The surgery is performed in a hospital operating room under sterile conditions.

Personnel

• Lead Surgeon (specialized in hepatic surgery)
• Surgical Assistants
• Anesthesiologist
• Operating Room Nurses
• Surgical Technicians

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site
• Bleeding or hemorrhage
• Bile leakage
• Liver failure
• Blood clots
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia
• Longer-term complications such as liver dysfunction

Benefits

• Removal of diseased or cancerous tissue
• Potential cure or significant alleviation of symptoms
• Prevention of further liver damage

Recovery

• Initial hospital stay of 5-7 days for monitoring.
• Pain management through prescribed medications.
• Instructions on wound care and signs of infection.
• Gradual return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor liver function and overall recovery.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical treatments like radiofrequency ablation or chemotherapy.
• Partial liver resection targeting only the tumor.
• Liver transplantation, in cases of severe liver disease.

Patient Experience

• Mild to moderate pain post-surgery, managed with medications.
• Discomfort due to the surgical incision.
• The drain might cause temporary inconvenience.
• Gradual improvement in energy levels and liver function as recovery progresses.
• Emotional support and reassurance provided by healthcare team throughout recovery.