Hepatobiliary Surgery

The liver is one of the essential organs and has hundreds of functions, including important ones like blood detoxification, bile production for digestion, breaking down red blood cells, metabolism of nutrients and drugs, and blood clotting. Located in the upper abdomen, the liver is connected through the biliary tracts to its neighbouring digestive organs, namely the gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. The bile ducts serve as channels for the passage of bile from the liver and also other digestive enzymes produced by the pancreas. Any bile that isn’t transported to the small intestines after secretion from the liver will be temporarily stored in the gallbladder.

Individuals with obesity, type 2 diabetes, or have poor lifestyle habits like ongoing heavy alcohol use, smoking, or a fatty diet are at an increased risk of getting liver disease. Exposure to chemical toxins and certain medications can also cause liver damage since the liver is a metabolic organ. One of the most common pathogens for liver infection and inflammation is hepatitis virus which can be spread through blood, semen, contaminated food or water, or contact with an infected person. The liver can also be damaged through autoimmune diseases and certain genetic conditions which causes a build-up of chemicals in the liver.

Due to the biliary connections between the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas, it is relatively easy for infections and inflammations to spread between these organs. Hence, conditions related to any or all of these organs are usually treated by a hepatobiliary specialist. One of the most common symptoms for hepatobiliary disease is jaundice, which is seen as the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a byproduct produced when the liver breaks down red blood cells.