Hepatobiliary and pancreas surgery
Elite expertise in liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and bile duct surgery
Conditions that affect the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts require specialized expertise that’s not available everywhere. At Penn Medicine, we have a decades-long track record of safely and successfully performing complicated hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgeries. Our expertise offers you more options for positive, long-term results and better quality of life.
We offer specialized surgical options and support for:
We treat gallbladder cancer as well as complex problems, such as bile duct injuries and severe gallbladder disease. Our gallbladder surgeons work closely with Penn’s esteemed gastroenterologists and other doctors to provide precise, personalized care. We coordinate diagnostic tests and treatments to help you get the care you need as conveniently as possible.
At Penn, our surgeons have access to a special type of X-ray called a cholangiogram. This technology gives a detailed, real-time view (similar to a movie) of the biliary tree (bile ducts and tubes) during surgery. This up-close view of tiny structures increases your chances of a better result — even for the most technical procedures.
We perform a high volume of gallbladder removal surgeries, including open (large incision) and laparoscopic (tiny incisions) cholecystectomies. We always choose the most appropriate procedure that matches your needs.
Our surgeons specialize in treating a wide range of liver and bile duct conditions, including benign and malignant tumors, such as liver abscesses, adenomas, and cancers (both primary and metastatic). We also address bile duct issues like injuries and cancers. Liver resection surgery is a common treatment, and we excel in both open and minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques. Our expertise extends to complex cases and high-risk procedures.
Beyond surgery, we offer a comprehensive approach to liver and bile duct cancer, collaborating with other specialists to create personalized treatment plans. This may include advanced therapies like hepatic artery infusion pumps. For patients who qualify, we seamlessly integrate with the Transplant Institute to provide access to life-saving liver transplant surgery.
We treat benign problems like pancreatitis, as well as precancerous pancreatic cysts and pancreatic cancer. This includes primary cancers originating within the pancreas, as well as cancers that have spread to the pancreas from other parts of the body.
Pancreas surgery may be recommended for various reasons, including cancer treatment, cancer prevention (in the case of certain cysts), and to improve quality of life for individuals with severe pancreatitis. Our surgical expertise encompasses a variety of procedures, such as distal pancreatectomy, total pancreatectomy, and minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic surgery. We also offer specialized procedures like islet autotransplantation and pancreas transplant surgery for specific conditions.
Our team features leading experts in technical procedures, such as the Whipple surgery (pancreaticoduodenectomy).
Hepatobiliary and pancreatic conditions we treat
Restoring health and hope: Pancreas and liver transplants at Penn
Penn Medicine’s Pancreas Transplant Program is a world leader in pancreas transplant research, offering innovative options like islet cell transplant and pancreas-kidney dual organ transplants to improve the lives of people with diabetes. Their team has guided hundreds of patients through the transplant journey with compassion and support, providing exceptional care throughout the entire process.
We boast a top-10 Liver Transplant Program in the nation, renowned for its exceptional survival rates and compassionate patient care. With a team of experienced surgeons and a commitment to research, Penn Medicine provides comprehensive support throughout the entire liver transplant journey, from evaluation and waiting list management to recovery and long-term care.
Hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgeries we perform
Our large team of hepatobiliary and pancreas specialists meets regularly to discuss subtle details of individual cases and deliver the best possible care. We collaborate with Penn’s esteemed gastroenterologists and gastrointestinal cancer specialists to determine the right treatment for you. This team mindset ensures we provide a precise diagnosis and comprehensive treatment.
We also developed specific protocols to ease your recovery and improve your health after surgery. Our easy-to-use patient portal (MyChart by myPennMedicine) makes it easy to connect with your care team during your recovery.
Our doctors
Our providers work with you to plan and deliver exceptional treatment and personalized care.
Locations
Our hospitals, multispecialty medical centers, pharmacies, labs and more offer outstanding, personalized care for patients all across the region.
Related articles
New KIR-CAR T cell therapy shows promise in solid cancers
An early report of a new type of CAR T cell therapy, called KIR-CAR, was shared in a Clinical Trial Plenary session at the AACR Annual Meeting 2026.
New strategy targets pancreatic cancer before it forms
A new preclinical study in mice shows that precancerous cells in the pancreas can be eliminated before they have the chance to become tumors.