Mr Russell Hodgson
Copyright © 2017 Mr Russell Hodgson HPB and General Surgeon, Melbourne, Australia
Appointments/Enquiries: 9456 9511
Specialist HPB and General Surgeon
Colon and Rectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in Australia. Many of these are thankfully picked up early before they have had a chance to spread, and can be treated with surgery. A group of cancer cells that has spread away from the primary bowel site is known as a metastasis. The liver is the most common place away from the colon for a metastasis, or multiple metastases, to grow.
If the liver is the only place that the bowel cancer has spread to, surgery is often indicated. Multiple investigations are often required beforehand to ensure there is a chance of a cure. Patients with liver metastases are often discussed in a multidisciplinary meeting with oncologists, radiologists, and other surgeons, to ensure that each patient gets the best treatment possible.
Liver surgery can be keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery in some circumstances, but sometimes needs to be an open operation or even in 2 stages. Russell discusses the options extensively with his patients and helps to tailor treatment for each individual.
