hepatectomía

Hepatectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a portion of the liver. This operation is most commonly performed to treat liver cancer, either primary tumors that originate in the liver or metastases from cancers elsewhere in the body. It can also be indicated for benign liver tumors, liver cysts, or as a step in liver transplantation, where a portion of a donor liver is implanted.

The extent of the hepatectomy depends on the size, location, and number of lesions to be removed, as well as the patient's overall liver function. Types of hepatectomy range from minor resections, such as wedge resections or segmentectomies, to major hepatectomies that involve removing an entire lobe or multiple segments. The goal is to remove all diseased tissue while preserving enough healthy liver to sustain the body's vital functions.

Before undergoing a hepatectomy, patients typically undergo extensive pre-operative evaluation, including imaging studies like CT scans and MRIs, blood tests to assess liver function, and sometimes other diagnostic procedures. The surgery itself can be performed using open or laparoscopic techniques. Post-operative care focuses on monitoring for complications such as bleeding, infection, bile leaks, and liver failure, and supporting the patient's recovery as the remaining liver regenerates. The prognosis after hepatectomy varies greatly depending on the underlying condition, the extent of the resection, and the patient's general health.