Cirrhosis of the Liver: When Surgery or Transplant Is Needed?
Cirrhosis of the liver is a serious long-term condition where healthy liver tissue is slowly replaced by scar tissue. This damage affects the normal functioning of the liver over time. In India, liver cirrhosis is becoming increasingly common due to alcohol use, viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and lifestyle-related causes. Many patients now actively seek Liver Cirrhosis Treatment in Chennai because of access to advanced diagnostics, expert surgeons, and modern surgical facilities.
Early diagnosis and timely medical care can help slow the disease. However, when cirrhosis reaches an advanced stage, surgery or liver transplant may become the only life-saving option. Knowing when medical treatment is enough and when surgery is required is very important for better outcomes.
At GEM Hospital, Chennai, Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy offers advanced and personalised care for patients with complex liver conditions.
What Is Liver Cirrhosis?
Liver cirrhosis is the final stage of chronic liver disease. The liver loses its ability to regenerate due to repeated injury. Over time, scar tissue builds up and blocks blood flow through the liver. This leads to multiple complications.
Common causes include:
- Chronic alcohol consumption
- Fatty liver disease
- Chronic hepatitis B or C
- Autoimmune liver disorders
- Long-standing bile duct problems
Early stages may not show clear symptoms. As damage progresses, symptoms become more noticeable.
Common Symptoms of Advanced Liver Cirrhosis:
In early cirrhosis, symptoms are mild. Advanced cirrhosis causes significant health problems.
Common warning signs include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Swelling of the abdomen and legs
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
- Confusion or memory problems
- Frequent infections
- Vomiting blood or black stools
At this stage, patients need expert liver diseases treatment in Chennai from a specialised team.
When Is Surgery Needed for Liver Cirrhosis?
Surgery is not required for all cirrhosis patients. It is advised only when specific complications develop.
- Portal Hypertension Complications: Cirrhosis increases pressure in the portal vein. This leads to enlarged veins in the food pipe and stomach. If bleeding occurs, emergency surgical or endoscopic procedures are required.
- Ascites and Recurrent Fluid Build-Up: Some patients develop severe abdominal fluid accumulation. When medicines fail, surgical procedures may be advised to control symptoms.
- Liver Cancer in Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis significantly increases the risk of liver cancer. Early-stage liver cancer may be treated with surgery. Advanced cases may require a transplant.Consulting an experienced liver cancer surgeon in Chennai is crucial in such cases.
- Bile Duct and Gallbladder Complications: Cirrhosis can complicate gallbladder and bile duct diseases. Surgery may be required to prevent infection and further liver damage.
Role of Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgery in Cirrhosis:
Modern surgical techniques have transformed liver care. Minimally invasive surgery offers better recovery and fewer complications.
Laparoscopic Surgery
Laparoscopic procedures involve small incisions. This reduces pain and hospital stay. A skilled laparoscopic surgeon in Chennai can safely perform selected liver procedures even in cirrhosis patients
Robotic Surgery
Robotic surgery provides enhanced precision and control. It is especially useful for complex liver and gastrointestinal procedures. Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy, a highly experienced robotic surgeon in Chennai, uses advanced robotic systems to perform complex liver surgeries with improved accuracy and safety.
When Is Liver Transplant Surgery Needed?
Liver transplant is considered when cirrhosis reaches end-stage and the liver can no longer function.
Indications for Liver Transplant
- Decompensated cirrhosis
- Recurrent internal bleeding
- Severe jaundice
- Liver failure symptoms
- Liver cancer within transplant criteria
In such cases, liver transplant surgery in Chennai offers a life-saving option.
Lifestyle Changes Along With Surgical Care:
Surgery or transplant alone is not enough. Lifestyle changes are essential.
Key recommendations include:
- Complete alcohol avoidance
- Balanced, protein-rich diet
- Salt restriction in fluid retention
- Regular follow-ups
- Vaccination against hepatitis
- Early reporting of new symptoms
These steps slow disease progression and improve surgical outcomes.
Why Choose Dr. S. Srivatsan GurumurthyFor Liver Cirrhosis Treatment?
Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy is a highly experienced Robotic and Laparoscopic Liver and Pancreas Surgeon in Chennai with over 17+ years of clinical experience. He currently practises at GEM Hospital, Perungudi, and SS Surgical Clinic, Mylapore, offering advanced care for complex liver conditions. He holds specialised qualifications, including DNB in GI Surgery, and is professionally trained in the Da Vinci robotic surgery system. His clinical focus includes advanced liver surgery, pancreas surgery, gastrointestinal cancer treatment, and hernia repair using minimally invasive techniques.
Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy is actively involved in academic research and surgical innovation. He has co-authored and published 34 research papers in leading national and international medical journals. He is also a contributor to the prestigious “Coimbatore Summit Statements” on Laparoscopic Pancreatic Resection, published in the journal Surgical Oncology. These achievements reflect his strong commitment to evidence-based surgical practice.
In recognition of his work, he received a Travel Grant Award for the best laparoscopic paper presentation at the AHPBA International Conference 2019 in Seoul, South Korea. He has also been invited as faculty to perform live laparoscopic surgeries at major conferences such as AMASICON 2020 and the Sri Lankan Surgical Society Annual Conference 2020.
His expertise in minimally invasive and robotic procedures ensures:
- Accurate diagnosis
- Individualised treatment plans
- Safer surgeries
- Faster recovery
- Better long-term outcomes
Patients looking for reliable and advanced liver cirrhosis treatment in Chennai benefit from Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy’s patient-centric approach, ethical practice, and use of the latest surgical technologies.
Conclusion:
Cirrhosis of the liver is a serious condition, but timely treatment can save lives. While early stages are managed medically, advanced cirrhosis often needs surgery or transplant. Recognising warning signs and consulting the right specialist at the right time is crucial. With modern laparoscopic and robotic techniques, patients today have safer and more effective treatment options.
If you or a loved one is facing liver cirrhosis complications, booking appointment with experienced specialist like Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy, a trusted name in advanced liver care in Chennai.