Is Surgery an Option for Intrahepatic Metastasis of Liver Cancer?

Understanding Intrahepatic Metastasis in Liver Cancer

Liver cancer often spreads within the liver itself, typically through the portal vein. Cancer cells can travel via the portal vein branches, leading to metastasis in different parts of the liver. When intrahepatic metastasis occurs, the treatment approach depends heavily on the specific location and extent of the spread.

Evaluating the Possibility of Surgical Removal

If the metastasis is limited to a specific segment or lobe of the liver—such as the right or left half—it may still be possible to remove the affected area surgically. For instance, if the cancer is confined to the right lobe, a right hepatectomy might be performed. Similarly, if the tumors are located on the surface of the left lobe and are either solitary or limited to three lesions, a left hepatectomy or local tumor resection could be considered.

Post-Surgery Liver Function and Recovery

After surgical removal, the remaining liver tissue is usually capable of compensating for normal physiological functions, preventing liver failure. This is especially true when the patient's liver function is relatively preserved before the procedure.

When Surgery Is Not Feasible

However, if the cancer has widely spread across both lobes or shows diffuse involvement of the liver, surgery may no longer be a viable option. In such cases, alternative treatments like liver transplantation, hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy, embolization, or other interventional therapies may be recommended.

Personalized Treatment Planning Is Key

Ultimately, the decision to proceed with surgery depends on several factors, including the size, number, and location of metastatic lesions. A multidisciplinary team should evaluate each case to determine the most effective and safe treatment strategy for the patient.