A Comprehensive guide to Liver Cancer Treatment in India

Do you have questions about liver cancer treatment options in India? We've got you covered. Dealing with liver cancer is tough, but knowing your treatment choices is crucial. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about treating liver cancer in India. From the latest surgical techniques to targeted therapies, we'll explore it all. Find out which hospitals are known for their expertise in liver cancer care and how they approach treatment. Whether you're looking for info on medical procedures or planning your healthcare journey, this guide will give you the lowdown.

Liver Cancer Treatment Procedure

Liver cancer treatment is a multifaceted approach that depends on various factors such as the stage of the cancer, the overall health of the patient, and the extent to which the cancer has spread. Here are the primary treatment procedures used for liver cancer:

1. Surgical Treatments

a. Partial Hepatectomy: This involves the surgical removal of the cancerous part of the liver. It's generally recommended for patients with a single tumour that has not invaded blood vessels. The remaining healthy liver tissue is expected to take over the functions of the removed part.

b. Liver Transplantation: In cases where the cancer is confined to the liver but surgery is not an option, a liver transplant may be recommended. This involves replacing the diseased liver with a healthy liver from a donor. This is particularly effective in patients with early-stage liver cancer.

2. Localized Treatments

a. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): RFA uses high-energy radio waves to heat and destroy cancer cells. A needle is inserted into the tumour, and the radio waves are passed through the needle to heat and kill the cancer cells. This method is usually used for small tumours.

b. Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE): TACE is a procedure that delivers chemotherapy directly to the liver tumour. The chemotherapy drugs are mixed with an oily substance that helps them stay in the tumor longer. This mixture is then injected into the artery that supplies blood to the liver tumour. Additionally, particles that block the blood supply to the tumour are also injected, which helps to starve the tumour of nutrients.

c. Selective Internal Radiation Therapy (SIRT): Also known as radioembolization, SIRT involves injecting tiny radioactive beads into the hepatic artery, which supplies blood to the liver. These beads become lodged in the blood vessels surrounding the tumour and deliver localized radiation to kill cancer cells.

3. Systemic Treatments

a. Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy drugs are designed to attack specific cancer cell mechanisms. These drugs, such as sorafenib and lenvatinib, target specific proteins or genes involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.

b. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy works by enhancing the body's immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells. Drugs like nivolumab and pembrolizumab have shown promise in treating advanced liver cancer by helping the immune system attack cancer cells more effectively.

c. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be administered orally or intravenously. While not commonly used as the first line of treatment for liver cancer, it may be used when other treatments are not suitable.

4. Other Treatments

a. Radiation Therapy: External beam radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. This treatment is typically reserved for patients who cannot undergo surgery or other localized treatments.

b. Alcohol Injection: This involves injecting pure alcohol directly into the tumour, which causes the cancer cells to dehydrate and die. This method is often used for small tumours when other treatments are not feasible.

c. Cryoablation: Cryoablation uses extreme cold to freeze and destroy cancer cells. A probe is inserted into the tumour, and liquid nitrogen or argon gas is used to freeze the cancer cells.

Best Hospitals for Liver Transplant in India

1. Apollo Hospitals, Chennai:

Specialties:

• Oncology: Offers comprehensive cancer care, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and advanced therapies like proton therapy (first in South Asia) and bone marrow transplant.
• Cardiology: Renowned for advanced cardiac surgeries, minimally invasive procedures, interventional cardiology, and electrophysiology services.
• Gastroenterology: Provides a full spectrum of gastroenterological services, including diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy, liver disease management, and advanced GI surgeries.
• Orthopedics: Specializes in joint replacement surgeries, sports medicine, spine surgery, and pediatric orthopedics.
• Neurology: Offers comprehensive neurological care, including stroke management, epilepsy treatment, neurodegenerative diseases management, and brain tumor surgery.

Technology:

• Cutting-edge imaging facilities like PET CT scan, 3 Tesla MRI, and high-resolution CT scan.
• Advanced robotic surgery systems (e.g., Da Vinci) for minimally invasive procedures.
• Telemedicine services for remote consultations and patient monitoring.
• A well-equipped cath lab for advanced cardiac procedures.
• Modern radiation therapy equipment, including linear accelerators and brachytherapy units.

Patient Services:

• International patient services team to assist with travel arrangements, visa applications, and language translation.
• Personalized care coordinators to guide patients through their treatment journey.
• Comfortable and well-equipped patient rooms with various accommodation options.
• Support services like nutrition counseling, physiotherapy, and psychological counseling.

2. BLK Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi:

Specialties:

• Joint Replacement Surgery: Renowned for joint replacement surgeries using advanced techniques and computer navigation.
• Bariatric Surgery: Offers a comprehensive weight loss surgery program, including laparoscopic and robotic bariatric procedures.
• Organ Transplant Program: Provides liver, kidney, and heart transplants with a high success rate.
• Oncology: Offers medical, surgical, and radiation oncology services, including advanced cancer therapies.
• Cardiology: Provides advanced cardiac care, including minimally invasive procedures, interventional cardiology, and cardiac electrophysiology.

Technology:

• Advanced diagnostic tools like PET CT scan, 3 Tesla MRI, and high-resolution CT scan.
• Robotic surgical systems like Da Vinci Xi for minimally invasive surgeries.
• Cutting-edge cath labs for complex cardiac procedures.
• Advanced radiation therapy equipment for precise cancer treatment.

Patient Services:

• International patient services team to assist with travel arrangements and medical visa applications.
• Dedicated patient care coordinators to guide patients throughout their treatment journey.
• Comfortable and well-equipped patient rooms with a range of accommodation options.
• Support services like physiotherapy, nutritional counseling, and psychological counseling.

3. Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket

Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket is one of the leading multispecialty hospitals in India, located in the heart of South Delhi. It is part of the Max Healthcare brand, which has a network of hospitals and healthcare facilities all over India.

Here's a summary of the Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket:

• Established: 2006
• Number of beds: 530+
• Accreditations: JCI, NABH, NABL
• Specialities: Over 38 specialities including Cardiology, Oncology, Neurology, Neurosurgery, Nephrology, Urology, Transplant services (Heart, Lung, Liver, Kidney, Bone Marrow), Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aesthetics & Reconstructive Surgery, and many other ancillary medical services.

Here are some of the reasons why Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket is considered one of the best hospitals in India:

• Advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies: The hospital is equipped with the latest technologies for diagnosis and treatment, including several first-in-India and Asia machines.
• Team of experienced doctors: The hospital has a team of highly qualified and experienced doctors from various specialities.
• Comprehensive care: The hospital provides comprehensive care for a wide range of medical conditions, from simple to complex.
• Focus on patient care: The hospital is committed to providing quality care to its patients and has a patient-centric approach.

Top Liver Transplant Surgeons in India

1. Dr. Arvinder Singh Soin (Medanta - The Medicity, Gurgaon):

• Expertise: Dr. Soin is a pioneer in liver transplantation in India. He has performed the highest number of liver transplants in the country, exceeding 3500, including a significant number of pediatric transplants.
• Focus: He is known for his expertise in both deceased donor and living donor liver transplants (LDLT), with a high success rate.
• Recognition: Dr. Soin is internationally recognized for his work and has received the prestigious Padma Shri award for his contributions to the field.

2. Dr. Vivek Vij (Fortis Hospital, Noida):

• Expertise: Dr. Vij is a renowned liver transplant surgeon with extensive experience in adult and pediatric liver transplantation.
• Focus: He has a special focus on complex liver transplant surgeries, including re-do transplants and surgeries for patients with high-risk factors.
• Recognition: Dr. Vij is known for his commitment to patient care and his use of advanced surgical techniques to achieve optimal outcomes.

3. Dr. Mohammed Rela (Global Hospitals, Chennai):

• Expertise: Dr. Rela is a highly skilled liver transplant surgeon with a strong background in both adult and pediatric liver transplantation.
• Focus: He has a particular interest in minimally invasive liver transplant techniques and robotic surgery for improved patient recovery.
• Recognition: Dr. Rela is actively involved in research and development in the field of liver transplantation and has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals.

Liver Cancer Treatment Cost in India

Factors Affecting Cost:

• Treatment Type:
  • Surgery: Ranges widely depending on complexity. Simple liver resection can cost ₹8-10 lakhs (USD 10,000-12,500), while complex resections or transplants can reach ₹25-35 lakhs (USD 31,000-44,000).
  • Ablation: Generally less expensive than surgery, starting around ₹80,000 (USD 1,000).
  • Other Therapies: Embolization, radiation, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy vary depending on specific drugs and techniques used.
• Cancer Stage: Advanced stages often require multiple treatments, increasing the overall cost.
• Hospital Location & Reputation: Treatment in major cities or renowned cancer centres may be more expensive than in smaller hospitals in rural areas.

Liver Cancer Treatment Success Rate in India

The success rate of liver cancer treatment in India varies depending on several factors:

• Stage of cancer at diagnosis: Early detection is crucial. For early-stage liver cancer, the success rates are significantly higher, particularly with surgical procedures like resection or a liver transplant. Studies suggest a possible 5-year survival rate exceeding 90% for stage I Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC).
• Type of treatment: Different treatment options have varying success rates. Curative options like surgery offer a better chance for a complete cure.
• The overall health of the patient: A patient's general health significantly impacts how well they tolerate treatment and their overall prognosis.

Here's a general idea:

• Early Stage: Success rates can be very high, potentially exceeding 90%.
• Advanced Stage: Treatment focuses on managing the disease and improving lifespan. Rates tend to be lower.

Risks Associated with Liver Cancer Treatment

Like any medical treatment, liver cancer treatment comes with certain risks, including:

• Infection: Post-surgical infections are possible.
• Bleeding: Liver surgeries can sometimes result in significant blood loss.
• Organ Rejection: In case of a liver transplant, the body may reject the new liver.
• Side Effects of Chemotherapy: Nausea, fatigue, hair loss, and other side effects.

How can HealthTrip assist with your treatment?

If you're seeking Liver Cancer Treatment in India, let HealthTrip be your compass. We support you throughout your medical journey with the following:

• Access to top doctors in 38+ countries and the largest health travel platform.
• Partnerships with 1500+ hospitals, including Fortis, Medanta, and more.
• Treatments in neuro, cardiac care, transplants, aesthetics, and wellness.
• Post-treatment care and assistance.
• Teleconsultations with leading doctors at $1/minute.
• Over 61K patients served.
• Access Top treatments and packages, such as Angiograms and many more.
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• 24/7 unwavering support, from hospital formalities to travel arrangements or emergencies.

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Post-Treatment Care and Recovery

Post-treatment care is crucial for recovery and includes:

• Regular Follow-ups: Monitoring for recurrence of cancer.
• Medication: Anti-rejection drugs in case of a liver transplant.
• Diet and Nutrition: A balanced diet to support recovery.
• Physical Activity: Light exercises to regain strength.
• Psychological Support: Counseling and support groups for emotional well-being.

India has risen as a prominent destination for liver cancer treatment, providing advanced medical care at competitive prices. With experienced doctors, cutting-edge hospitals, and impressive success rates, patients worldwide choose India for their treatment. While liver cancer treatment involves risks, the extensive post-treatment care available in India greatly improves recovery and overall quality of life. If you or a loved one is facing liver cancer, exploring the exceptional treatment options in India could offer significant benefits.