Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgery is a highly specialized branch of surgical care dedicated to treating complex diseases of the liver, pancreas, and biliary system. These organs perform essential functions such as digestion, detoxification, hormonal regulation, and metabolism—making HPB disorders some of the most challenging conditions to diagnose and treat.
With advancements in surgical technology, imaging, minimally invasive techniques, and liver transplantation, HPB surgery today offers excellent outcomes for patients with both benign and malignant conditions. This blog serves as a comprehensive guide for patients and families seeking expert care from an HPB and liver transplant surgeon.
What is HPB Surgery?
HPB surgery focuses on the surgical management of diseases involving:
- Liver
- Pancreas
- Gallbladder & Bile Ducts
- Portal venous system
It includes a wide range of procedures—from laparoscopic gallbladder removal to complex liver resections and pancreatic cancer surgery.
HPB surgeons undergo extensive, advanced training to perform highly precise operations that require deep anatomical understanding and technical expertise.
Conditions Treated by HPB Surgeons
- Liver Diseases
- Liver tumors (Hepatocellular carcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma)
- Metastatic liver cancer
- Liver cysts and abscesses
- Hemangiomas, adenomas, FNH
- Cirrhosis complications
- Bile duct injuries
- Pancreatic Disorders
- Pancreatic cancer
- Neuroendocrine tumors
- Acute & chronic pancreatitis
- Pancreatic cysts and pseudocysts
- Pancreatic duct strictures
- Biliary System Conditions
- Gallbladder stones & infections
- Bile duct strictures
- Choledochal cysts
- Bile duct cancers
- Post-surgical bile leaks
Common HPB Surgical Procedures
Liver Surgeries
- Liver Resection / Hepatectomy for tumors
- Living Donor Liver Transplantation
- Laparoscopic & Robotic Liver Surgery
- Bile Duct Reconstruction
- Cyst removal / Hydatid cyst surgery
- Radiofrequency & Microwave Ablation
Pancreatic Surgeries
- Whipple Procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy)
- Distal Pancreatectomy
- Total Pancreatectomy
- Minimally invasive pancreatic surgery
- Surgery for chronic pancreatitis
Gallbladder & Bile Duct Surgeries
- Laparoscopic cholecystectomy
- CBD exploration
- Choledochal cyst excision
- Biliary bypass surgery
HPB surgeons frequently collaborate with gastroenterologists, interventional radiologists, and oncologists to provide comprehensive care.
Role of Liver Transplant Surgeons in HPB Surgery
A liver transplant surgeon is uniquely trained to handle the most complex HPB surgeries. Their expertise includes:
- Mastery of liver anatomy and vascular structures
- Experience in high-risk hepatobiliary resections
- Ability to manage cirrhotic patients with precision
- Expertise in complex biliary reconstructions
- Advanced skills in minimally invasive & robotic HPB procedures
This makes liver transplant surgeons among the most qualified specialists to manage advanced HPB conditions.
HPB surgery plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating diseases of the liver, pancreas, and biliary system. With modern surgical advancements and the expertise of dedicated HPB and liver transplant surgeons, even the most complex conditions can be treated safely and effectively.
If you or your loved one is facing an HPB condition, consulting a specialist early ensures accurate diagnosis, timely intervention, and the best possible outcomes.
