Category Archives: Hepatobiliary Surgery

What Are the Symptoms of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma?

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) arises from bile ducts within the liver parenchyma. Early lesions are usually asymptomatic; as the tumor enlarges or metastasizes, the following complaints typically appear: Right-upper-quadrant painA dull, continuous ache or vague fullness beneath the ribs is the most frequent early symptom; it may radiate to the back or shoulder. Palpable mass or hepatomegalyPatients or clinicians can feel a firm, nodular liver edge or localized lump that moves with respiration. Unintended weight loss & anorexiaRapid loss of >5 % body weight within weeks, early satiety and loss of interest in food are common systemic effects. Fatigue and night... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Budd-Chiari Syndrome?

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare disorder caused by obstruction of hepatic venous outflow. Symptoms depend on the speed and extent of blockage; they range from none to fulminant hepatic failure. Three clinical patterns are recognised: Acute (days–weeks)Sudden, severe right-upper-quadrant pain, rapidly accumulating ascites, tender hepatomegaly, nausea and vomiting. Jaundice, high fever and early hepatic encephalopathy may appear if massive necrosis develops. Sub-acute (weeks–3 months)Moderate ascites, gradual abdominal distension, low-grade fever, fatigue and dull hepatic pain; collaterals begin to form so jaundice is often mild or absent. Chronic (>3 months)Persistent ascites, non-tender hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, lower-limb oedema and visible abdominal wall... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Primary Liver Cancer?

Primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, HCC) often begins silently; early-stage tumors rarely cause pain or obvious changes. As the lesion enlarges or invades adjacent structures, the following complaints typically appear: Right-upper-quadrant discomfortA dull, continuous ache or heaviness develops beneath the ribs and may radiate to the back or right shoulder. Palpable mass or abdominal swellingPatients or clinicians can feel a firm, nodular liver edge below the costal margin; progressive enlargement can produce visible asymmetry of the abdomen. Unintended weight loss & anorexiaRapid loss of >5 % body weight within weeks, early satiety and loss of interest in food are common... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Gallbladder Cancer?

Gallbladder cancer is an aggressive malignancy that usually produces no specific early warning signs. Symptoms appear only when the tumour obstructs bile flow, invades adjacent organs, or becomes advanced. Right-upper-quadrant painA constant, dull ache or colicky pain under the ribs is the most common first complaint; it may radiate to the right shoulder or back and is often mistaken for uncomplicated gallstone disease. Palpable massA firm, non-tender swelling is sometimes felt in the upper abdomen when the tumour has enlarged or the gall-bladder is distended by associated stones. JaundiceYellow discoloration of skin and sclera, dark urine and pale stools develop... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Liver Cysts?

Liver cysts are fluid-filled sacs that usually remain asymptomatic and are found incidentally on imaging. When symptoms do occur, they are related to cyst size, number, or complications such as infection, rupture, or pressure on adjacent organs. Right-upper-quadrant discomfortA persistent dull ache or feeling of fullness under the ribs is the most common complaint, especially after meals or prolonged sitting. Abdominal bloating and early satietyLarge cysts compress the stomach or intestines, producing visible distension and the sensation of being full after only a small amount of food. Nausea and occasional vomitingPressure on the gastric wall can trigger queasiness, eructation, or... Learn more