General Information
What is the Wellington Liver Unit, and where is it located?
The Wellington Liver Unit is a private specialist service in Wellington, New Zealand, dedicated to the care of liver and bile duct conditions. Our experienced team of surgeons and radiologists provide advanced, personalised treatment tailored to your needs. We see patients and perform procedures at both Wakefield Hospital and Southern Cross Hospital, offering a supportive environment every step of the way.
What types of liver conditions do you treat?
We manage a wide range of conditions including liver tumours (benign and cancerous), bile duct disorders, gallbladder disease, complex gallstone disease, cirrhosis, and complications affecting the liver and pancreas.
Who are the specialists in the team?
Our team includes highly trained hepatobiliary surgeons and interventional radiologists with both local and international expertise.
How is care coordinated at the unit?
We use a team approach, with specialists reviewing each case together to provide the best treatment plan for you.
Diagnosis & Treatment Options
What diagnostic evaluations will I undergo?
You may need blood tests, ultrasound, CT or MRI scans, and sometimes a biopsy to help diagnose your condition.
What treatment approaches are available?
Treatment options include surgery (laparoscopic, robotic, or open), image-guided procedures, endoscopic treatments, or medical management.
How are treatment decisions made?
Your case is reviewed by our multidisciplinary team, and we discuss all options with you so you feel informed and supported.
Are there non-surgical alternatives or adjunct therapies?
Yes, some patients benefit from image-guided procedures, targeted treatments, or supportive management instead of surgery.
Appointment & Referral Process
How can I make an appointment or get a referral?
Most patients are referred by their GP, hospital doctor, or another specialist. You may also contact us for advice on referrals.
What information should I bring to my appointment?
Please bring scan reports, recent blood tests, a list of your medications, your referral letter, and any relevant medical history.
How long does it take to get an appointment?
Urgent cases are prioritised, and routine appointments are scheduled as soon as possible.
What to Expect During Visits
Where is the unit located, and what should I expect on arrival?
Our unit is private-based, with consultation rooms located at Wakefield Hospital. Surgical procedures or interventional radiology treatments will be carried out at either Wakefield Hospital or Southern Cross Hospital, depending on your specific care plan.
How many visits might be needed, and what happens at each?
This varies by patient. Typically, you will have an initial consultation and review of investigations, followed by a treatment plan. If a procedure is needed, it will be arranged, with follow-up visits to monitor your recovery.
Who will be involved in my care?
Your care will be led by the surgeon and radiologists, who will guide the overall treatment plan. Once a plan is established, other members of the wider team—such as nurses, dietitians, and allied health professionals—will be involved to provide support throughout your treatment and recovery.
Risks, Benefits & Follow-Up
What are the risks and benefits of proposed treatments?
Liver tumours are often complex, and different treatment options may be considered depending on your individual situation. Each option comes with potential benefits—such as improving survival, reducing tumour burden, or relieving symptoms—as well as possible risks, including bleeding, infection, or other complications.
These options will be clearly explained to you in detail, so that we can work together to make the best combined decision for your care.
How will I be followed up after treatment?
Follow-up usually includes clinic visits, scans, and blood tests to monitor your recovery.
What should I do after discharge?
You will receive clear instructions about wound care, diet, medications, and warning signs to look out for.
Support & Additional Resources
Is psychological, dietary, or social support available?
Yes, we work with dietitians, social workers, and counsellors to support you and your family.
Can I access information to help prepare for procedures?
Yes, we provide written guides and online resources tailored to your procedure.
How can I request a second opinion?
You are welcome to request a second opinion within our team or from another centre at any time.
Who do I contact with questions or concerns?
For any questions or concerns, you can contact our office during regular working hours. Outside of these times, urgent issues can be directed to our clinicians or the private hospital where your care was provided.
Can I bring a family member or support person to appointments?
Yes, we encourage you to bring someone with you to help ask questions and provide support.
Technical & Lifestyle Information
What innovations or technologies does the unit offer?
We use minimally invasive surgery, robotic techniques, and advanced imaging and radiological treatments.
Will treatment require a hospital stay, and if so, how long?
Some procedures are done as day cases, but major surgery may require a stay of one to two weeks.
How do I prepare for surgery or intervention?
You will receive clear, tailored instructions on how to prepare, including guidance on fasting, managing your medications, exercise and pre-conditioning, as well as what to expect in the lead-up to your procedure
