Liver, Pancreas and Biliary Surgery

Through our unique collaboration with UCSF, our hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB) program provides state-of-the-art treatment for patients with cancerous and non-cancerous diseases of the pancreas, liver, gallbladder, and biliary (bile duct) system. Our surgeons are trained to provide the latest minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic surgical techniques and technologies to get you the best possible results.

Multi-Disciplinary Team Approach

Our UCSF-led HPB surgery team works hand-in-hand with multidisciplinary experts across many medical specialties—including other surgeons, hepatologists, gastroenterologists, medical and radiation oncologists,  interventional radiologists, anesthesiologists, pathologists and more—to provide you with specialized and complete care. Our team includes dedicated advanced practice providers (APPs) and navigators who help you navigate your diagnosis, surgery, and recovery.

For complex cancer cases, patients are discussed at Tumor Board, where the cancer specialists meet regularly to discuss and collaborate, share knowledge and fresh perspectives, and develop personalized, and evidence-based treatments. The team considers all options, including any available clinical trials.

Conditions We Treat

• Pancreas cancers, tumors, and precancerous cysts
• Liver cancers, tumors, and metastatic spread from other sites
• Gallbladder and biliary cancers and tumors
• Gastric and gastroesophageal cancers and tumors
• Other tumors and cancers of the small bowel, adrenal glands, spleen, and uncommon tumors such as sarcomas and peritoneal cancers
• Benign conditions requiring complex surgery including chronic pancreatitis and biliary or gallbladder problems

Minimally Invasive Surgery

While certain tumors require an open surgery, we can perform many procedures using minimally invasive approaches, including laparoscopic and robotic. These minimally invasive techniques require several small incisions for inserting a lighted camera and instruments.

The potential advantages of minimally invasive surgery include less pain, shorter hospital stay, lower risk of infection, and quicker return to your normal activities.

Why Choose John Muir Health for HPB Surgery?

• UCSF-led team offers the latest in surgical innovation and research
• Multi-disciplinary, collaborative approach leads to better outcomes
• Expert in minimally invasive surgical techniques
• Support services, including nurse navigators and social workers