Liver Cancer

Program Overview
At The Lacks Cancer Center at Saint Mary's Health Care our cancer treatment programs are increasing hope everyday, thanks to a unique multidisciplinary model of care, which incorporates a staff of progressive physicians, and innovative technologies. In addition to this model, we continually review and apply the latest anti-cancer drugs, the newest staging and imaging techniques — such as PET scan technology — and the most effective surgical procedures to ensure the best outcomes in the treatment of liver cancer.

Liver Cancer Overview
Due to our staff of expert oncologists — recruited from across North America — and our state-of-the-art technologies, The Lacks Cancer Center can provide comprehensive care for even the most complex cancers. Malignancies are divided into two general categories: primary tumors, which begin in the liver, and secondary tumors, which spread (metastasize) from other areas of the body to the liver. The most common primary liver tumor is hepatocellular carcinoma — a solid tumor that develops in livers chronically damaged (cirrhosis) by viral hepatitis or excessive alcohol consumption. Traditionally, patients with tumors that have spread to the liver would be considered incurable, however, in certain cases, surgical removal is a potentially effective option. This complex surgery requires a team of expert specialists, and the availability of the most advanced cancer treatment technologies, such as those found at The Lacks Cancer Center.

Patients can become part of our multidisciplinary program through a referral from their primary care physician or with a self-referral by calling 1-877-LACKS-MI or 616-685-LACK(S).