Liver Cancer Surgery Drainage Tube Placement: What You Need To Know

After liver cancer surgery, the placement of the drainage tube is crucial for recovery and the prevention of complications. Typically, the drainage tube is positioned on the liver's resection surface and at the lowest possible point for effective drainage. Here's a closer look at how and why these placements are chosen:

1. Drainage Tube On The Liver Ressection Surface
One of the most common complications following liver resection is post-operative bleeding, fluid accumulation, infection, and bile leakage. By placing the drainage tube directly on the liver's cut surface, fluids and blood can be efficiently drained through the shortest possible route. This helps maintain proper drainage function, reduces the risk of complications, and allows for early detection of any issues such as bleeding or bile leakage.

2. Drainage At The Lowest Abdominal Position
When the patient is lying down, the right subhepatic space (hepatorenal recess) becomes the lowest point in the abdominal cavity. Placing the drainage tube at this location allows for effective removal of fluid not only from the liver's surgical site but also from the general abdominal area. This ensures that any normal post-operative fluid accumulation can be properly managed and monitored.

Factors Influencing Drainage Tube Placement
The exact placement of the drainage tube depends on the type of surgery performed and the intended purpose of the drainage. For instance, in cases of left lateral sectionectomy, where the resected liver surface is relatively small, the drainage tube is often placed directly on the liver wound. However, in right hepatic resections or segmental resections, the tube may be placed either on the liver surface or in the hepatorenal recess to ensure complete and efficient drainage of any potential fluid buildup.

Proper drainage plays a key role in post-operative recovery, helping to reduce complications and allowing medical professionals to monitor the healing process effectively. Always follow the guidance of your surgical team regarding the care and management of the drainage system after liver surgery.