Liver Cancer Specialist In Singapore

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Dr Thng Yongxian

MBBS

MMed

MRCS (IRE)

FRCSED

FAMS

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What is Liver Cancer?

Liver cancer, also known as hepatic cancer, is a type of cancer that originates in the liver. The most common form is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which begins in the main type of liver cell, the hepatocyte. Liver cancer can also occur when cancer from another part of the body spreads to the liver, known as secondary liver cancer.

Liver cancer is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early detection through screening programs and awareness of risk factors can improve outcomes for individuals at risk of developing liver cancer.

Causes of Liver Cancer

Liver cancer can be caused by various factors, including chronic infections with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV), which significantly increase the risk of developing it. Other common causes and risk factors associated with liver cancer include the following.

Chronic Liver Diseases

Conditions like cirrhosis, which is scarring of the liver often caused by long-term alcohol abuse or chronic viral hepatitis infections.

Inherited Liver Diseases

Certain inherited liver diseases, such as hemochromatosis and Wilson’s disease, can predispose people.

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Excessive fat accumulation in the liver due to factors other than alcohol consumption, such as obesity and metabolic syndrome, can increase the risk of liver cancer.

Diabetes

Individuals with diabetes have an increased risk of developing liver cancer.

Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Chronic heavy alcohol consumption over many years can lead to irreversible liver damage, cirrhosis, and ultimately increase the risk of liver cancer.

Smoking

Smoking cigarettes is associated with an increased risk of various cancers, including liver cancer.

Other Factors

Factors like obesity, exposure to harmful chemicals, certain parasites in the liver (liver flukes), and HIV infection can also contribute to the development of liver cancer.

Symptoms and Signs

You may experience the following if you have liver cancer. If your symptoms are persistent or worsen, consult a qualified specialist for an accurate diagnosis & prompt treatment.

  • Unintended Weight Loss
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Feeling Very Full After a Small Meal
  • Nausea or Vomiting
  • Enlarged Liver
  • Enlarged Spleen
  • Abdominal Pain
  • Swelling or Fluid Build-Up in the Abdomen
  • Skin Itching
  • Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes (Jaundice)
  • Fever
  • Enlarged Veins on the Abdomen
  • Abnormal Bruising or Bleeding

Diagnosis

To diagnose liver cancer, various tests and procedures are used to assess the condition.

Blood Tests

Blood tests can reveal abnormalities in liver function and may include checking for tumour markers like alpha-fetoprotein (AFP).

Imaging Tests

Doctors may recommend imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRIs to visualise the liver and detect abnormalities.

Liver Biopsy

A liver biopsy involves removing a small sample of liver tissue for laboratory testing to diagnose cancer cells. This procedure helps in confirming the presence of cancer but carries some risks like bleeding and infection.

Once liver cancer is diagnosed, staging tests are conducted to determine the extent of the cancer. Staging helps understand the cancer’s size, location, and spread, which is crucial for determining treatment options and prognosis.

Get an Accurate Diagnosis & Specialised Treatment For Your Condition Today

Consult our dual fellowship-trained surgeon for a personalised treatment plan today.

Surgical Treatment Options

These surgical treatments offer the best chances of curing liver cancer, particularly when the cancer is localised and has not spread extensively.

Liver Resection

This involves removing part of the liver affected by cancer. Liver resection is a viable option when the cancer is confined to the liver, and the remaining liver is healthy.

Liver Transplant

For patients with cirrhosis or specific tumour characteristics, a liver transplant may be recommended. This procedure involves replacing the diseased liver with a healthy liver from a donor.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Non-surgical treatments are available for patients who may not be eligible for surgery.

  • Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE)
    TACE delivers high doses of chemotherapy directly to the liver tumour while blocking off its blood supply, effectively targeting the cancer cells.
  • Transarterial Radioembolization (TARE)
    TARE is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting tiny radioactive beads into the blood vessels that feed the liver tumour.
  • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) and Microwave Ablation (MWA)
    These techniques use heat to destroy liver tumours by inserting probes directly into the tumour to induce coagulation necrosis.
  • Percutaneous Ethanol Injection (PEI)
    PEI involves injecting highly concentrated alcohol directly into the tumour to destroy cancer cells.
  • Targeted Cancer Drugs
    Drugs like atezolizumab and bevacizumab are used to target specific molecules involved in cancer growth, helping shrink tumours or slow their progression.
  • Radiotherapy
    Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation beams to target and destroy cancer cells in the liver.

Prevention Strategies

You can significantly reduce your chances of developing liver cancer by following these prevention strategies and addressing associated risk factors.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Avoiding obesity can help protect against liver cancer, as obesity is linked to fatty liver disease and diabetes, both of which are risk factors for liver cancer.

Avoid and Treat Hepatitis Infections

Chronic infection with hepatitis B or C viruses significantly increases the risk of liver cancer. Getting vaccinated against hepatitis B and undergoing treatment for chronic hepatitis B or C can reduce the risk of liver cancer.

Limit Alcohol and Tobacco Use

Alcohol abuse is a major cause of cirrhosis, which can lead to liver cancer. Quitting smoking can also slightly lower the risk of liver cancer.

Limit Exposure to Cancer-Causing Chemicals

Avoiding exposure to chemicals known to cause liver cancer, such as aflatoxin, can help reduce the risk.

Protect Against Hepatitis B and C Infection

Vaccination against hepatitis B and screening for hepatitis C is crucial in preventing liver cancer. Antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis B and effective treatments for hepatitis C can reduce the risk of liver cancer.

Other Risk Factors

Conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), cirrhosis worsened by alcohol use, hemochromatosis, exposure to arsenic, intake of male hormones or anabolic steroids, and ingestion of aflatoxin can also increase the risk of developing liver cancer.

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Dr Thng Yongxian

MBBS (SG)

MMed (Surg)

MRCS (Ire)

FRCSEd (Gen)

FAMS (Surg)

Dr Thng Yongxian is a dual fellowship-trained Hepatopancreatobiliary & General Surgeon who has performed over 6000 surgical procedures.

  • Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery,
    National University of Singapore
  • Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons, Ireland
  • Master of Medicine, General Surgery, Singapore
  • Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh
  • Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore

He pursued his subspecialty training in Hepatopancreatobiliary surgery first in the Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Singapore General Hospital. Following this, he completed a clinical fellowship in Minimally Invasive Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery at Seoul National University Hospital in Bundang, South Korea.

Dr Thng set up and pioneered the Minimally invasive surgery program for his hospital in complex liver and pancreas cases. His surgeries were featured on live national television. His surgical videos have also been presented at international surgical conferences. He also pioneered the use of capsule colonoscopy for colorectal screening.

Dr Thng has served on various committees at hospital, cluster and ministry level. Dr Thng served as a member of the Ministry of Health (MOH) Laparoscopic cholecystectomy Clinician workgroup for value-driven care (VDC).

Patient Reviews

I cannot possibly express how grateful I am for the compassionate care received by Dr Thng during my hospitalization. I was 20 hours away from flying back to the USA after a long work trip, and homesick already when diagnosed with acute appendicitis and a UTI. To say that I was nervous to undergo surgery so far away from home, friends and family is an understatement. He was expedient, attentive and thorough. He even took the time to text and call my husband back home multiple times to update him on my status. His infectious laugh, sense of humor and kindness helped to sooth my own frazzled nerves. I am so appreciative to have had Dr Thng as my surgeon.

Ms Tina Hunter

I was diagnosed for ampullory cancer in 2021. I am very thankful to Dr. Thng Yongxian who kept me calm when revealing the report to me. I really felt like God sent his angel to speak to me.He helped me overcome the operation. Dr. Thng said 3 things that I needed to do before the operation....Stay positive, exercise n eat well, have faith in God. He even gave me his handphone number incase I need to consult him when home. Indeed the 8 hrs operation was a success n I am able to write this testimonial, living a normal life. Finally, its still God who works all things good for those who love Him... Romans 8:28.

Mdm Tang K H

I recently underwent gallbladder stone removal surgery performed by Dr. Thng, and I am impressed with the quality of care I received during this process. Dr. Thng demonstrated exceptional professionalism and expertise throughout my entire experience. From the initial consultation to the post-operative care, Dr. Thng explained the procedure in great details, answered all my questions, and alleviated my concerns and ensuring that I fully understood each step of the process. His compassionate and caring demeanor put me at ease, making me feel confident in his abilities. The outcome of the procedure was beyond my expectations. Dr. Thng successfully removed all my 3 gallstones, and I experienced a smooth recovery process. I am grateful for his expertise and the care I received under his supervision. Overall, my experience with Dr. Thng was exceptional. I highly recommend him for his professionalism, compassion, and outstanding surgical skills. Thank you, Dr. Thng for your excellent care.

Mr Low LT

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    +65‎ 9838‎ 5827

    Our Clinic Locations

    Nexus Surgical @ Mt. Alvernia

    820 Thomson Road, #06-05 ,Singapore 574623

    Monday-Friday: 9.00am-5.00pm
    (Lunch: 1.00-2.00pm)
    Saturday: 9.00am-1.00pm
    Sunday & PH: Closed

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    Can liver cancer develop in previously healthy patients?

    Yes, liver cancer can develop in previously healthy patients, although it is more common in individuals with risk factors such as hepatitis B or C infections, obesity, alcohol abuse, and cirrhosis.

    Is liver cancer hereditary?

    While liver cancer itself is not hereditary, certain genetic factors can increase the risk of developing liver cancer, such as hemochromatosis and certain inherited liver diseases.

    How can I reduce my risk for liver cancer?

    You can lower your risk of getting liver cancer by maintaining a healthy weight, getting vaccinated against hepatitis B, getting tested for hepatitis C and receiving treatment if necessary, not smoking, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and managing conditions like obesity, diabetes, and hemochromatosis.

    What is the survival rate for liver cancer?

    The survival rate for liver cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and treatment response. It is best to discuss a specific prognosis with a hepatologist.

    Are fatty liver disease and liver cancer-related?

    Yes, fatty liver disease and liver cancer are related. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition in which there is an accumulation of fat in the liver that is not caused by alcohol. When this fat accumulation leads to inflammation and damage to liver cells, it is called non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). NASH can progress to more severe stages, including cirrhosis and liver cancer.

    +65‎ 9838‎ 5827