Post-Surgery Diet Tips for Liver Resection Patients: What to Avoid

Postoperative Diet After Da Vinci Liver Surgery

Hello Doctor, my father is 63 years old and has metastatic liver cancer due to colon cancer.
After undergoing chemotherapy for a period of time, he had a Da Vinci surgery on April 3rd, where approximately 50-60% of his liver was removed.
He was discharged last week and the doctor advised him to maintain a light diet post-surgery and to avoid alcohol temporarily (he had a habit of drinking before).
However, two days ago, he bought red wine braised beef to eat on his own.
Since then, he has reported feeling worse than when he was just discharged, with noticeable fatigue and a lack of appetite.
Could the inclusion of alcohol in the dish have caused this situation? Would you recommend returning to the surgical hospital for medical attention, or should we just observe and let him rest for a few days? I initially thought that the alcohol in cooking (such as rice wine or mirin) would mostly evaporate, but is there still a risk for a patient who has undergone liver surgery? Thank you, Doctor!

Hanna, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/17

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

You may return for a follow-up appointment to confirm if there are any abnormalities in your blood tests.
Post-operative dietary guidelines should be followed according to the nutritionist's recommendations (consultation is available).

Reply Date: 2023/04/17

More Info

Post-surgery diet management is crucial for liver resection patients, especially after significant procedures like a Da Vinci surgery for liver cancer. Your father's situation, having undergone a major liver resection, necessitates careful dietary considerations to promote healing and prevent complications.

Dietary Guidelines After Liver Resection
1. Avoid Alcohol: The most critical dietary restriction for liver surgery patients is the complete avoidance of alcohol. Alcohol can be particularly harmful to a recovering liver, as it can exacerbate liver damage and interfere with the healing process. Even small amounts of alcohol, such as those found in cooking wine, may not be advisable for someone with a compromised liver. While cooking can reduce alcohol content, it does not eliminate it entirely, and the remaining alcohol can still affect liver function.

2. Light and Balanced Diet: Post-surgery, a light diet is recommended. This means focusing on easily digestible foods that are low in fat and high in nutrients. Foods such as lean proteins (like chicken, fish, and legumes), whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables should be prioritized. These foods help provide the necessary nutrients for recovery without overburdening the liver.

3. Small, Frequent Meals: Instead of three large meals, encourage your father to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This approach can help manage fatigue and improve appetite, as large meals can be overwhelming and may lead to discomfort.

4. Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential. Encourage your father to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine, as they can lead to dehydration.

5. Monitor Symptoms: If your father is experiencing increased fatigue and a lack of appetite after consuming a dish with wine, it is essential to monitor these symptoms closely. While it may be tempting to attribute these feelings solely to the meal, they could also be indicative of other post-surgical complications or the body's response to the stress of surgery.

When to Seek Medical Attention
If your father continues to feel unwell, it is advisable to consult with his healthcare provider. Symptoms such as persistent fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, or any signs of jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) should not be ignored. These could indicate complications such as liver dysfunction or infection, which require prompt medical evaluation.

Conclusion
In summary, after liver resection surgery, it is vital to adhere to a diet that supports liver health and recovery. Avoiding alcohol, consuming a balanced diet, eating smaller meals, and staying hydrated are key components of this process. Given your father's recent experience with a meal containing wine, it would be prudent to avoid such dishes in the future and to consult with his healthcare team if his symptoms persist. Regular follow-ups with a nutritionist or dietitian specializing in liver health can also provide tailored dietary advice to support his recovery.

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