Hepatectomy—the surgical removal of part or all of the liver—is one of the most effective treatments for liver cancer and other serious liver diseases. Thanks to major advancements in hepatobiliary surgery, anesthesia, and postoperative care, Vietnam has emerged as a reliable destination for hepatectomy, offering international-standard treatment at significantly lower costs than many Western countries.
This comprehensive guide provides international patients with everything they need to know about Hepatectomy in Vietnam, including indications, surgical techniques, costs, recovery, risks, outcomes, and why Vietnam is increasingly chosen for advanced liver surgery.
What Is Hepatectomy?
The liver is a vital organ responsible for metabolism, detoxification, bile production, and nutrient storage. Hepatectomy is a surgical procedure in which surgeons remove a diseased portion of the liver while preserving enough healthy tissue to maintain liver function.
One of the liver’s unique characteristics is its remarkable ability to regenerate. When performed on appropriately selected patients, hepatectomy allows the remaining liver to grow and restore function within weeks to months.
Conditions Treated with Hepatectomy in Vietnam
Hepatectomy in Vietnam is commonly performed to treat:
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Primary liver cancer (Hepatocellular carcinoma – HCC)
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Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer)
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Liver metastases (especially from colorectal cancer)
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Large or symptomatic benign liver tumors (hemangioma, adenoma, focal nodular hyperplasia)
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Recurrent liver abscesses
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Severe liver trauma
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Selected cases of parasitic liver disease
Vietnamese hospitals follow international clinical guidelines and multidisciplinary tumor board evaluations to determine whether hepatectomy is the most appropriate treatment.
Types of Hepatectomy Performed in Vietnam
Vietnam offers a full spectrum of liver resection techniques, from conventional open surgery to advanced minimally invasive and robotic procedures.
1. Partial Hepatectomy
This involves removing a small section or one liver segment.
Indications
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Localized tumors
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Preserved liver function
Advantages
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Faster recovery
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Lower risk of liver failure
2. Major Hepatectomy
Removal of three or more liver segments, often required for large or multiple tumors.
Indications
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Advanced or centrally located tumors
Considerations
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Requires careful preoperative liver function assessment
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Performed only at specialized centers
3. Minimally Invasive Hepatectomy (Laparoscopic)
This approach uses small incisions and specialized instruments.
Advantages
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Less blood loss
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Reduced postoperative pain
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Shorter hospital stay
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Faster return to daily activities
Minimally invasive hepatectomy is increasingly used in Vietnam for suitable patients.
4. Robotic-Assisted Hepatectomy
Available at select advanced centers, robotic surgery offers enhanced precision and visualization.
Advantages
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Superior dexterity in complex liver anatomy
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Improved accuracy near major blood vessels
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Lower complication rates in selected cases
Preoperative Evaluation and Preparation
Before hepatectomy in Vietnam, patients undergo a comprehensive evaluation to ensure safety and optimal outcomes:
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Blood tests (liver function, coagulation profile)
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Imaging studies (CT scan, MRI, contrast-enhanced ultrasound)
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Assessment of future liver remnant (FLR)
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Viral hepatitis screening (HBV, HCV)
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Cardiac and pulmonary evaluation
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Nutritional assessment
In cancer cases, preoperative treatments such as transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) or systemic therapy may be recommended before surgery.
Hepatectomy Procedure: Step-by-Step
1. Anesthesia and Surgical Access
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Depending on the technique, the surgeon uses open, laparoscopic, or robotic access.
2. Liver Mobilization and Control of Blood Flow
Advanced techniques are used to minimize blood loss, including temporary vascular control.
3. Liver Resection
The diseased liver portion is carefully removed while preserving healthy tissue and vital structures.
4. Hemostasis and Closure
Bleeding is meticulously controlled, and surgical drains may be placed before closure.
Patients are then transferred to the ICU or high-dependency unit for close monitoring.
Recovery After Hepatectomy in Vietnam
Hospital Stay
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ICU: 1–2 days (if required)
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Total hospitalization: 7–14 days (longer for major resections)
Postoperative Care
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Pain control and early mobilization
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Liver function monitoring
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Gradual return to oral feeding
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Infection prevention
Full Recovery
Most patients resume normal daily activities within 4–8 weeks, depending on the extent of surgery and overall health.
Cost of Hepatectomy in Vietnam
Vietnam is highly competitive in terms of pricing for advanced liver surgery.
Estimated Cost Range
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Partial hepatectomy: USD 6,000 – 12,000
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Major hepatectomy: USD 10,000 – 20,000
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Minimally invasive hepatectomy: USD 12,000 – 25,000
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Robotic-assisted hepatectomy: USD 18,000 – 30,000
International Cost Comparison
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United States: USD 50,000 – 120,000
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Europe / Australia: USD 40,000 – 90,000
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Vietnam: Up to 60–70% cost savings
Costs typically include surgery, anesthesia, hospital stay, and standard postoperative care.
Quality and Safety Standards in Vietnam
Vietnam has made significant progress in hepatobiliary and liver cancer surgery.
Surgical Expertise
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Hepatobiliary surgeons trained in Japan, South Korea, Europe, and Australia
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Extensive experience in liver cancer management
Hospital Infrastructure
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Modern operating theaters
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Advanced imaging and navigation systems
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Intensive care and transplant-level monitoring
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International patient departments with English-speaking staff
Infection Control and Patient Safety
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Strict sterilization and safety protocols
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Multidisciplinary postoperative monitoring
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Early detection and management of complications
Risks and Potential Complications
As a major surgical procedure, hepatectomy carries certain risks:
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Bleeding
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Bile leakage
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Infection
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Liver failure (rare with proper patient selection)
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Pulmonary complications
Vietnamese surgical teams focus strongly on preoperative planning and postoperative care to minimize these risks.
Vietnamese hepatobiliary surgeons providing advanced hepatectomy and liver cancer surgery for international patients in a modern, international-standard hospital in Vietnam.
Outcomes and Prognosis
Outcomes after hepatectomy depend on:
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Tumor type and stage
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Liver function before surgery
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Surgical technique
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Postoperative care and follow-up
For early-stage liver cancer, hepatectomy offers excellent long-term survival and potential cure. Vietnam’s outcomes for appropriately selected patients are comparable to leading centers in Asia.
Why Choose Vietnam for Hepatectomy?
1. High-Quality Care at Affordable Costs
Vietnam offers advanced liver surgery with international standards at a fraction of Western prices.
2. Experienced Hepatobiliary Surgeons
Vietnamese specialists have extensive experience treating liver cancer, particularly in hepatitis-related cases.
3. Short Waiting Times
Rapid access to surgery and diagnostics.
4. International Patient Support
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English-speaking coordinators
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Assistance with visas, accommodation, and travel
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Transparent treatment plans and cost estimates
5. Strategic Medical Tourism Destination
Convenient access from Australia, Southeast Asia, East Asia, and the Middle East.
Is Hepatectomy in Vietnam Right for You?
Hepatectomy in Vietnam is particularly suitable for:
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Patients with liver cancer seeking cost-effective treatment
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International patients requiring timely surgery
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Patients interested in minimally invasive or robotic liver surgery
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Families seeking comprehensive, personalized care
A detailed medical review is essential before confirming eligibility and surgical planning.
Conclusion
Hepatectomy in Vietnam has become a trusted option for patients requiring advanced liver surgery. With skilled hepatobiliary surgeons, modern technology, international-standard hospitals, and affordable pricing, Vietnam is steadily establishing itself as a leading destination for liver cancer and complex hepatic surgery.
For patients facing serious liver disease, Vietnam offers not only surgical expertise but also accessibility, compassionate care, and renewed hope for recovery and long-term health.
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