Liver, Gallbladder & Pancreas Surgery
If you need care for the liver, pancreas, bile ducts, or gallbladder, ask for a referral to VHC Health in Arlington and the DC metro. Our surgeons have years of experience in hepatobiliary and pancreatic (HPB) surgery. Depend on us to treat cancers, tumors, cysts, inflammation, and other conditions. So, you can enjoy a better quality of life.
Reach Out
We're updating online scheduling for HPB surgery. For now, call 703.717.4126 to make an appointment.
Full Range of HPB Services
Turn to us when you need:
- Pancreatic surgery – Care for pancreatic cancer, other tumors, cysts, and early changes that could turn into cancer
- Liver surgery – Treatment for liver cancer, tumors that spread from other areas, and growths like adenomas, hemangiomas, and cysts
- Gallbladder and biliary surgery – Care for gallbladder cancer, bile duct cancer, bile duct injuries, bile duct cysts, and painful or infected gallstones
- Stomach surgery – Treatment for stomach cancer, other tumors, and ulcers that don't heal
- Cancer surgery – Expert care for rare or complex tumors, including abdominal sarcomas, small bowel tumors, and adrenal tumors
- Care for exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and chronic pancreatitis – Diagnosis and treatment for problems that prevent the pancreas from making digestive enzymes
Whenever they can, our surgeons use small incisions so you heal faster. This less invasive approach also reduces the risk of side effects.
Team Focused on You
You'll get a care plan based on your needs, health, and goals. You might see VHC Health experts in:
Our teamwork helps you get a timely diagnosis, the right treatment, and complete care.
Care for Your Whole Journey
From your first visit through recovery, our HPB team stays with you every step of the way. You can expect:
- Clear communication
- Expert surgical care
- Careful follow-up
- Support for you and your family
Diagnostic Tests
Your care team chooses tests based on your symptoms and the information they need to plan treatment. Radiologists, gastroenterologists, and surgeons often work together to get clear, accurate results.
Imaging Studies
- CT Scan: Shows detailed images of the liver, pancreas, and bile ducts to find tumors, cysts, infections, or blockages
- MRI: Uses magnets and radio waves (not radiation) to find tumors, swelling, and other problems
- Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to show the liver, pancreas, and bile ducts and find gallstones, cysts, and unusual growths
Endoscopic Tests
- ERCP: Uses a scope (tube with a camera) and X‑ray pictures to see the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts and treat strictures, stones, and tumors
- Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS): Uses an endoscope with an ultrasound probe to take close‑up images of the pancreas and nearby areas
Biopsies
- Liver biopsy: Removes a small piece of liver tissue to diagnose disease or measure damage
- Pancreatic biopsy: Shows whether a growth on the pancreas is cancer
Blood Tests
- Liver function tests: Show how well the liver is working
- Tumor markers: Look for signs of HPB cancers and other conditions
Nuclear Medicine
- HIDA scan: Shows how well the gallbladder and bile ducts are working
Diagnostic Surgery
- Laparoscopy: Uses small incisions and a thin tube with a light and camera to show the liver, pancreas, and nearby organs
Blood Vessel Imaging
- Hepatic angiography: Uses dye and X‑rays to look at liver blood vessels and plan surgery
- PET scan: Helps determine if cancer has spread to other areas
Causes of HPB Disease
Many factors can lead to liver, gallbladder, or pancreas disease. These may include genes, your lifestyle, infections, toxins, and other health conditions. Because these diseases can be complex, you should see a doctor as soon as you have symptoms or concerns. Early diagnosis and treatment help you get better long-term results.
