Treatment aims first to cure the cancer. Treatment (other than surgery) is also called therapy (for example, chemotherapy and radiotherapy).

If treatment cannot cure the cancer, it will aim to slow down its growth. From the beginning, your healthcare team will also be trying to relieve any symptoms you have (such as pain or jaundice). This is called palliative treatment.

Your treatment options will depend on a number of things:

The type of cancer you have. The treatment for primary liver cancer is different to the treatment for secondary cancer.

How widespread the cancer is. For example, if the cancer is just in a small area, surgery to cut it out may be possible. If the cancer is widespread, such surgery may not be effective, and other options will be considered.

Where the cancer is. Sometimes the cancer is growing in a position that would make surgery, or another kind of treatment, dangerous.

Your age and general health and fitness (some patients may not be strong enough to go through major surgery, for instance).The treatment for children is different to that for adults. Your hospital multidisciplinary team will be able to give you detailed information about the options.

Some treatments are being tested in clinical trials. Your hospital doctor will tell you about any trials you might be able to take part in.

Cutting out the cancer with surgery is the only way to cure it. Long-term survival after successful surgery on cancer that has not spread is possible. Being clear of the cancer for five years following treatment is usually regarded as a cure.

Your doctors will tell you about the risks, benefits and side-effects of the treatments you are offered, and how they may affect your life afterwards. Your wishes will be taken into account in deciding the treatment plan. Before any doctor, nurse or therapist examines or treats you, they must get your consent.

Surgery for cancer of the gall bladder
Palliative treatment and supportive care