Surgical care for the pancreas, liver and biliary system
The liver, pancreas, gallbladder and bile ducts work together to transform what you consume into energy and remove waste from your body. These organs perform complex functions and — when problems occur — surgery may be the most effective form of treatment.
Conditions we treat
Our surgeons can address a variety of conditions affecting the liver, pancreas, gallbladder and bile ducts.
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Pancreatitis
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Both gallstones — stone-like pieces of material that develop in the gallbladder — and excessive alcohol consumption are common causes of pancreatitis, inflammation of the pancreas. This condition can be acute (lasting only for a short time) or chronic (coming and going over a long period of time). Treatment for pancreatitis may include surgical removal of the diseased pancreatic tissue, removal of the gallbladder, or other approaches depending on your individual circumstances.
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Gallbladder disease
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Gallbladder disease includes any condition that affects the gallbladder, an organ that stores and releases digestive fluid called bile. Gallstones are a frequent cause of gallbladder disease. In some cases, gallstones can be treated with lifestyle changes, but sometimes surgical removal of the gallbladder is necessary.
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Bile duct injuries or strictures
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When the tubes that carry digestive fluid from the liver to the intestines become narrowed, blocked or damaged, surgery may be needed to correct the problem. Bile duct injuries or strictures can develop as a result of a previous surgery or conditions such as cancer.
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Benign and cancerous (malignant) tumors
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Growths can occur in the liver, gallbladder, pancreas and bile ducts. Sometimes these growths are benign, which means they do not spread, while others may be cancerous and can spread to other areas of the body. Our surgical teams collaborate with oncology specialists at MultiCare to treat these conditions. Learn more about cancer care.
Types of hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery
MultiCare surgeons have extensive expertise in performing procedures to address conditions affecting the pancreas and hepatobiliary system. We work closely with physicians from different specialties — including gastroenterology, interventional radiology, medical oncology and others — to develop treatment plans that support the best possible outcome and quality of life.
Whenever possible, we use minimally invasive techniques that support a faster recovery, fewer complications and less scarring. Some of the procedures we offer include:
- Gallbladder and bile duct resections
- Liver resections (hepatectomy)
- Pancreatic resections (pancreatectomy)
- Spleen resections (splenectomy)
- Pancreatic drainage procedures (Puestow procedure)
- Ultrasound-guided microwave ablation of liver tumors