What is hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery?
Hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery, or HPB surgery, refers to the surgical management of diseases affecting the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts and pancreas. This may include conditions such as gallstones, bile duct stones, gallbladder disease, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer and pancreatitis.
The main function of the hepatobiliary system is revolved around the transportation of bile from the liver to the digestive tract. Bile is critical for the digestion of fats present in the foods we eat.
The pancreas, on the other hand, produces enzymes to break down our intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. It also regulates our blood sugar level.
HPB surgery includes a series of treatments and procedures specifically designed to correct any disorders or diseases of the hepatobiliary and pancreatic system. Read on to find out the common conditions that a HPB surgeon can treat.
Who needs hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery?
Among the common conditions that a HPB surgeon can treat are:
- Gallstones and gallbladder disease
- Bile duct stone
- Gallbladder and bile duct cancer
- Liver cancer
- Pancreas cancer
- Pancreatitis
Gallstone Treatment
Gallstones are hardened deposits that can form in the gallbladder. Some people may not experience any symptoms, while others may develop upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, bloating or pain that occurs after meals, especially after fatty meals.
In some cases, gallstones may block the bile ducts and lead to complications such as gallbladder inflammation, infection, jaundice or pancreatitis. A hepatobiliary-pancreatic surgeon can assess the condition through clinical evaluation and imaging tests, and recommend suitable treatment options based on the patient’s symptoms, scan findings and overall health condition.
When should you see a doctor for gallstones?
You should seek medical advice if you experience persistent or severe upper abdominal pain, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or symptoms that worsen after meals.
Our Specialists
Explore our team of specialised consultants at Beacon Hospital, dedicated to providing expert care and treatment across various medical fields.
Consultant General & Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Surgeon
Bahasa Melayu, Cantonese, English, Hokkien, Mandarin
View
Consultant General & Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Surgeon
Bahasa Melayu, Cantonese, English
View
Consultant General & Hepatobiliary-Pancreatic Surgeon
Bahasa Melayu, English, Mandarin
View
