Disorders of the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts and bile can range from mildly troublesome to intensely painful. While some problems may be treated successfully with drugs, in many cases, surgery is the most effective treatment.

Delicate structures in the liver and pancreas present inherent surgical challenges. Tumors affecting these organs include both benign and malignant growths. At UC Irvine, our surgeons are highly experienced in performing complex hepatobiliary and pancreatic procedures and are often called upon to treat patients who have previously received care elsewhere. Some of the diseases that are treated at UC Irvine include:

• Liver cancer (primary or metastatic)
• Pancreatic cancer
• Neuroendocrine tumors
• Bile duct tumors
• Bile duct injuries
• Pancreatitis

Services

Whipple Procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy)

The Whipple procedure, also known as a pancreaticoduodenectomy, involves removing the gallbladder, head of the pancreas, part of the duodenum (part of the small intestine), part of the stomach and the common bile duct. Once those organs are removed, the pancreatic duct, bile duct and stomach are connected to the jejunum (another part of the small intestine) in order for pancreatic juices, bile and food to be drained into the small bowel. This procedure can be performed for a variety of reasons, most commonly cancer of the pancreas, common bile duct or duodenum.

Distal pancreas resection

When masses in the pancreas involve the tail of the pancreas, a distal pancreas resection is required. Since the spleen is in close proximity to the tail of the pancreas, surgeons may have to remove the spleen as well. UC Irvine is one of a few centers in the nation that offer this operation laparoscopically as opposed to traditional open surgery. This revolutionary approach results in less post-operative pain and shorter hospital stays.

Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a relatively new technique, employing a “heating probe” to destroy cancer cells. Using an ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scan as a guide, the surgeon inserts several thin needles through small incisions in the abdomen. When the needles reach the tumor, they're heated with an electric current, destroying the malignant cells. RFA is an option for patients with nonresectable tumors less than six centimeters in diameter. The procedure can be performed laparoscopically (by camera), percutaneously (through the skin) or through a standard incision (open). RFA has relatively few side effects, and patients can usually go home within 24 hours after being treated.