Performed by Dr. Ravi Chandra Reddy Obili at Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy
Hepatobiliary cancer surgery is performed to remove cancerous tumours from the liver, bile ducts or gallbladder. The operation may involve removing part of the liver (hepatectomy), the gallbladder with bile ducts (cholecystectomy with bile duct resection), or surrounding lymph nodes. Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy performs these procedures for patients who are suitable surgical candidates after thorough assessment.
We believe in honest, upfront disclosure so you can make an informed decision.
A step-by-step look at what happens during this procedure.
A cut is made in the upper abdomen to access the liver, bile ducts and gallbladder. The size and location depend on the tumour position.
The surgeon inspects the liver and surrounding organs to confirm the tumour can be removed and has not spread beyond what was seen on scans.
The affected part of the liver, bile duct or gallbladder is carefully cut away, along with a margin of healthy tissue and nearby lymph nodes if needed.
If bile ducts are removed, the remaining duct is reconnected to the intestine so bile can drain. Blood vessels are carefully preserved or reconstructed.
Drains may be placed to remove fluid, and the incision is closed with stitches or staples.
A structured, patient-first approach from first consultation to full recovery.
Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy reviews all imaging and test results, discusses the surgical plan with the patient and coordinates with the anaesthesia and oncology teams.
The operation is performed using open surgical methods, with careful attention to preserving healthy liver tissue and ensuring complete tumour removal where possible.
Blood loss, liver function and vital signs are monitored closely throughout the procedure to guide decisions and ensure safety.
After surgery, Dr Ravi Chandra Reddy oversees recovery in hospital, manages drains and monitors for complications, and arranges follow-up with oncology if further treatment is needed.
What to expect at each stage of your recovery journey.
Pain is managed with medication, fluids and nutrition are given through a drip initially, and you are encouraged to walk short distances. Drains stay in place until fluid output decreases.
Energy levels are low and you will need help with daily tasks. Diet is gradually advanced. Wound care and activity limits are followed as instructed. Follow-up appointments monitor liver function and healing.
Strength returns over weeks to months. You can resume most normal activities but heavy lifting and strenuous exercise are avoided until cleared. Further cancer treatment may begin during this phase if recommended.
The aim is to remove the cancer completely with clear margins. However, microscopic spread not visible during surgery can occur, and recurrence remains possible.
Surgery may relieve symptoms such as pain, jaundice or abdominal fullness. It does not address symptoms caused by distant spread of cancer.
Many patients require chemotherapy or other treatments after surgery. The operation itself does not replace the need for ongoing cancer care.
If a large portion of liver is removed, the remaining liver may take time to regenerate and function fully. In some cases, liver capacity may be permanently reduced.
The right choice depends on your diagnosis, risks and circumstances — discussed with you at your consultation.
Used when the tumour cannot be completely removed, or to shrink tumours before surgery, or to reduce recurrence risk after surgery. Choice depends on cancer type, stage and patient health.
Heat-based techniques that destroy small tumours without major surgery. Suitable only for limited tumour sizes and locations, and not all cancer types.
Focuses on symptom relief and quality of life when surgery is not possible or the cancer is advanced. May include stent placement for bile drainage or pain management.
Let's clear up some of the most common myths about hepatobiliary cancer surgery.
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