Understanding Liver Cancer
Liver cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide and poses unique surgical challenges due to the
liver’s complex vascular anatomy and its critical role in metabolism. The two main types are primary liver cancer
(hepatocellular carcinoma or HCC, which arises from liver cells) and secondary or metastatic liver cancer (cancer
that has spread to the liver from other organs, most commonly from the colon, rectum, stomach, or pancreas).
India has a particularly high burden of liver cancer due to the prevalence of hepatitis B and C infections, rising
alcohol consumption, and the increasing incidence of fatty liver disease. Early detection and expert surgical
management are critical for achieving the best outcomes.
Liver Cancer Surgeries Performed by Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan
Major Hepatic Resection
For larger tumours or tumours in challenging locations, Dr. Nagarajan performs major liver resections including
right hepatectomy, left hepatectomy, extended hepatectomy, and trisectionectomy. The liver’s remarkable
ability to regenerate allows for removal of up to 70% of the liver volume in patients with healthy underlying liver
tissue.
Parenchyma-Sparing Liver Surgery
For patients with multiple small liver metastases or underlying liver disease (cirrhosis), Dr. Nagarajan specialises
in image-guided parenchyma-sparing surgery — removing tumours while preserving the maximum amount of
healthy liver tissue. This approach is particularly important for patients with colorectal liver metastases who may
require staged surgeries.
Liver Surgery with Vascular Reconstruction
In cases where the tumour involves major blood vessels, Dr. Nagarajan performs liver resections with vascular
reconstruction — including total vascular exclusion techniques. This level of complexity is performed only at the
most advanced HPB centres globally.
Laparoscopic and Robotic Liver Surgery
Selected liver resections, including segmentectomies and wedge resections, are performed using minimally
invasive techniques when tumour location and size are favourable.
Ablation Procedures
For patients who are not candidates for surgical resection, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or microwave ablation
can be offered in collaboration with Nanavati Max’s interventional radiology team.
Why Choose India for Liver Cancer Treatment?
India offers a compelling combination for liver cancer patients: surgeons with international training and highvolume experience, hospital infrastructure matching global standards (Nanavati Max’s new state-of-the-art
tower features sea-view private rooms, expanded OPDs, and cutting-edge OT suites), comprehensive
multidisciplinary support, and significant cost savings compared to Western countries.
Dr. Nagarajan’s team at Nanavati Max is recognised as one of the highest-volume tertiary referral centres for
complex hepatobiliary cancers in India, routinely treating patients from across the country and from Africa, the
Middle East, and South Asia.
Outcomes and Expertise
Over 2,000 complex GI and HPB surgeries performed. Overall mortality below 1% — matching leading global
cancer centres. Patients with colorectal and neuroendocrine liver metastases are operated routinely with
excellent long-term outcomes. Supported by interventional radiology teams and gastroenterologists for presurgery procedures like portal vein embolisation.
For International Patients
Virtual consultations available via WhatsApp video call and hospital telemedicine. Medical visa invitation letters
provided. Airport pickup and nearby accommodation assistance. Dedicated international patient coordinator.
Share your CT/MRI scans and reports digitally for an expert opinion before you travel.
Ready to discuss your treatment options? Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan is available for virtual consultations via WhatsApp video call or the hospital’s telemedicine platform.
Call +91 7304663828 | WhatsApp +91 7700058024 | Book Video Consultation
FAQ’S
Can liver cancer be cured with surgery?
When detected early and completely resected, liver cancer can potentially be cured. Even in cases of liver metastases from colorectal cancer, surgical resection combined with chemotherapy can achieve 5-year survival rates of 40-50% at high-volume centres.
How much liver can be safely removed?
The liver can regenerate. In patients with healthy liver tissue, up to 70% can be removed. In patients with underlying cirrhosis, the volume that can be safely resected is smaller, and specialised assessments are required.
What is the recovery time after liver surgery?
Hospital stay is typically 5-8 days for major resections. Most patients resume normal activities within 4-6 weeks.
