Operating on a patient with hepatitis C

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects more than 250 000 Canadians, many of whom are at increased risk of perioperative complications with surgery and all of whom represent an important risk for the entire surgical care team. The virus likely remains undiagnosed in one-third, while others have a limited understanding of the implications of the disease. All face an increased risk of liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma. We review hepatitis C infection, including the challenges presented in operating on a patient with HCV infection and the inherent risks for the care team.