Randomized comparison of ultrasonic vs clamp transection of the liver

Clinical score to predict the risk of bile leakage after liver resection

Background

In liver resection, bile leakage remains the most common cause of operative morbidity. In order to predict the risk of this complication on the basis of various factors, we developed a clinical score system to predict the potential risk of bile leakage after liver resection.

Methods

We analyzed the postoperative course in 518 patients who underwent liver resection for malignancy to identify independent predictors of bile leakage, which was defined as “a drain fluid bilirubin concentration at least three times the serum bilirubin concentration on or after postoperative day 3,” as proposed by the International Study Group of Liver Surgery. To confirm the robustness of the risk score system for bile leakage, we analyzed the independent series of 289 patients undergoing liver resection for malignancy.

Results

Among 81 (15.6 %) patients with bile leakage, 76 had grade A bile leakage, and five had grade C leakage and underwent reoperation. The median postoperative hospital stay was significantly longer in patients with bile leakage (median, 14 days; range, 8 to 34) than in those without bile leakage (11 days; 5 to 62; P = 0.001). There was no hepatic insufficiency or in-hospital death. The risk score model was based on the four independent predictors of postoperative bile leakage: non-anatomical resection (odds ratio, 3.16; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 1.72 to 6.07; P < 0.001), indocyanine green clearance rate (2.43; 1.32 to 7.76; P = 0.004), albumin level (2.29; 1.23 to 4.22; P = 0.01), and weight of resected specimen (1.97; 1.11 to 3.51; P = 0.02). When this risk score system was used to assign patients to low-, middle-, and high-risk groups, the frequency of bile leakage in the high-risk group was 2.64 (95 % CI, 1.12 to 6.41; P = 0.04) than that in the low-risk group. Among the independent series for validation, 4 (5.7 %), 16 (10.0 %), and 10 (16.6 %) patients in low-, middle, and high-risk groups were given a diagnosis of bile leakage after operation, respectively (P = 0.144).

Conclusions

Our risk score model can be used to predict the risk of bile leakage after liver resection.

Symptomatic Perihepatic Fluid Collections After Hepatic Resection in the Modern Era

BACKGROUND

Improvements in liver surgery have led to decreased mortality rates. Symptomatic perihepatic collections (SPHCs) requiring percutaneous drainage remain a significant source of morbidity.

STUDY DESIGN

A single institution's prospectively maintained hepatic resection database was reviewed to identify patients who underwent hepatectomy between January 2004 and February 2012.

RESULTS

Data from 2173 hepatectomies performed in 2040 patients were reviewed. Overall, 200 (9%) patients developed an SPHC, the majority non-bilious (75.5%) and infected (54%). Major hepatic resections, larger than median blood loss (≥360 ml), use of surgical drains, and simultaneous performance of a colorectal procedure were associated with an SPHC on multivariate analysis. Non-bilious, non-infected (NBNI) collections were associated with lower white blood cell (WBC) counts, absence of a bilio-enteric anastomosis, use of hepatic arterial infusion pump (HAIP), and presence of metastatic disease, and resolved more frequently with a single interventional radiology (IR) procedure (85 vs. 46.5%, p < 0.001) more quickly (15 vs. 30 days, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

SPHCs developed in 9% of patients in a modern series of hepatic resections, and in one third were non-bilious and non-infected. In the era of modern interventional radiology, the need for re-operation for SPHC is exceedingly rare. A significant proportion of minimally symptomatic SPHC patients may not require drainage, and strategies to avoid unnecessary drainage are warranted.

Long great saphenous vein grafting as temporary coronary bypass for extended left hepatectomy: report of a case

The right gastroepiploic artery (RGEA) has been used in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) as an alternative graft. In particular abdominal surgeries, surgery is required to rescue the graft flow into the coronary artery. A 77-year-old male with a history of CABG using RGEA was admitted with a diagnosis of a large hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) occupying the whole caudate lobe. Preoperative coronary angiography indicated that the graft from the right internal mammary artery to the proximal left circumflex artery was obliterated among three branch bypasses. Following laparotomy, a great saphenous vein was harvested and delivered from the right axial artery to the RGEA graft over the thoracic wall, and the RGEA graft was ligated and divided. Subsequently, extended left hepatectomy was safely performed. Following hepatectomy, the RGEA graft was restored to the former condition, and the temporary graft was removed. After overcoming hyperbilirubinemia, the patient was discharged on postoperative day 28. This experience indicates that temporary bypass using the long great saphenous vein is effective and safe during long and invasive surgeries.

Hemostasis and Hepatic Surgery

Operative blood loss is a major source of morbidity and even mortality for patients undergoing hepatic resection. This review discusses strategies to minimize blood loss and the utilization of allogeneic blood transfusion pertaining to oncologic hepatic surgery.

Electrosurgical devices: are we closer to finding the ideal appliance? A critical review of current evidence for the use of electrosurgical devices in general surgery

Over the last decade, the use of electrosurgical devices has become commonplace across all surgical specialities. The current market is large enough to warrant a comparative review of each device. This has even more impetus given the budgetary constraints of NHS organisations. This review aims to compare the benefits and drawbacks of the most popular electrosurgical devices, whilst conducting a critical review of the literature. Structured searches using databases Medline and EMBASE were conducted. The search was restricted to English language papers only. Due to the abundance of literature, this review will focus on common general surgical procedures alone. Despite a plethora of available devices, individual preference still dictates use. Conventional diathermy may always have its place, but may see a decline in use if costs improve. Newer devices have shown comparable precision and added advantages.

Evaluation of a newly developed piezo actuator-driven pulsed water jet system for liver resection in a surviving swine animal model

Background

Preservation of the hepatic vessels while dividing the parenchyma is key to achieving safe liver resection in a timely manner. In this study, we assessed the feasibility of a newly developed, piezo actuator-driven pulsed water jet (ADPJ) for liver resection in a surviving swine model.

Methods

Ten domestic pigs underwent liver resection. Parenchymal transection and vessel skeletonization were performed using the ADPJ (group A, n = 5) or an ultrasonic aspirator (group U, n = 5). The water jet was applied at a frequency of 400 Hz and a driving voltage of 80 V. Physiological saline was supplied at a flow rate of 7 ml/min. After 7 days, the animals were killed and their short-term complications were examined and compared between the two groups.

Results

No significant complications, such as massive bleeding, occurred in either group during the surgical procedures. The transection time per transection area was significantly shorter in group A than in group U (1.5 ± 0.3 vs. 2.3 ± 0.5 min/cm², respectively, P = 0.03). Blood loss per transection area was not significantly different between groups A and U (9.3 ± 4.2 vs. 11.7 ± 2.3 ml/cm², P = 0.6). All pigs in group A survived for 7 days. No postoperative bleeding or bile leakage was observed in any animal at necropsy.

Conclusion

The present results suggested that the ADPJ reduces transection time without increasing blood loss. ADPJ is a safe and feasible device for liver parenchymal transection.

Diagnosis and Management of Bile Leaks After Hepatectomy: Results of a Prospective Analysis of 475 Hepatectomies

Background

The diagnosis and management of bile leaks after hepatectomy are heterogeneous because there is no agreement on the definition of post‐hepatectomy biliary fistula. The aim of this study was to validate our definition and management of biliary fistulas after hepatic resection and to compare our results with those proposed by other authors.

Methods

A prospective series of patients who underwent hepatic resection from 2004 to 2012 were established. Drains were maintained for 7 days, and bilirubin was measured on postoperative days (PODs) 3, 5, and 7. Drains were removed if the bilirubin on POD 7 was less than that on POD 5 and less than 171 µmol/l (10 mg/dl). A statistical analysis of prognostic factors for biliary fistula was performed.

Results

Among 475 consecutive patients, 39 (8 %) had biliary fistulas. Only 8 (1.7 %) patients required postoperative interventions. In comparison with other studies, we observed a higher rate of bile leaks, but at the same time, we observed a lower rate of interventional procedures. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve on POD 7 had the highest predictive value (0.81; P < 0.001). Pringle maneuvers lasting ≥90 min (OR = 3.4; P < 0.001), extended resections (OR = 6.4; P = 0.007), blood transfusions (OR = 2.4; P = 0.035), and resections including segment I (OR = 1.9; P = 0.033) or segment V (OR = 1.8; P = 0.024) were independently associated with an increased risk of bile leak.

Conclusions

The proposed definition of biliary fistula provides effective recognition of those that are clinically relevant with a reduction of the risk of unrecognized collections and minimal postoperative morbidity. Registration Number: NCT02056028 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

[Vascular management in anatomical liver resection]

The vascular management in anatomical liver resection plays a pivotal role in maintaining an adequately functional residual liver volume. In this respect it is essential to guarantee an adequate portal and arterial inflow as well venous outflow for the whole residual liver (lobe or segments). To achieve this, the liver surgeon should have excellent perioperative imaging, surgical expertise based on knowledge of vascular anatomy, physiology and hemodynamics of the liver and a well-designed and cautious operative strategy. The use of intraoperative ultrasonography (with or without contrast enhancement) and modern parenchymal dissectors (e.g. ultrasound or water jet dissectors) are strongly recommended.

Skeletonization and Isolation of the Glissonean and Venous Branches in Liver Surgery With an Ultrasonic Scalpel Technology

This study describes a novel technique for skeletonization and isolation of Glissonean and venous branches during liver surgery using a harmonic scalpel (HS). Hepatic resections with HS were performed with the skeletonization and isolation technique in 50 patients (HS group). Variables evaluated were blood loss, operative time, biliary leak, and morbidity. The results were compared with 50 hepatic resections that were performed using a previously established technique: Cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator with electric cautery, ligatures, and hemoclips (NHS group). The HS group had shorter total operative times (285 versus 358 minutes; P = 0.01), less blood loss (389 versus 871 mL; P = 0.034), and less crystalloid infusion (2744 versus 3299 mL; P = 0.027) compared with the NHS group. Postoperative liver function and complication rates were similar when comparing the two groups. These data demonstrate that HS is a simple, easy, and effective instrument for the skeletonization and isolation of vessels during liver transection.

Liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma using a microwave tissue coagulator: Experience of 1118 cases

AIM: To present our extensive experience of hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma using a microwave tissue coagulator to demonstrate the effectiveness of this device.

METHODS: A total of 1118 cases (1990-2013) were reviewed, with an emphasis on intraoperative blood loss, postoperative bile leakage and fluid/abscess formation, and adaptability to anatomical resection and hepatectomy with hilar dissection.

RESULTS: The median intraoperative blood loss was 250 mL; postoperative bile leakage and fluid/abscess formation were seen in 3.0% and 3.3% of cases, respectively. Anatomical resection was performed in 275 cases, including 103 cases of hilar dissection that required application of microwave coagulation near the hepatic hilum. There was no clinically relevant biliary tract stricture or any vascular problems due to heat injury. Regarding the influence of cirrhosis on intraoperative blood loss, no significant difference was seen between cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic patients (P = 0.38), although cirrhotic patients tended to have smaller tumors and underwent less invasive operations.

CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated outcomes of an extensive experience of hepatectomy using heat coagulative necrosis by microwave tissue coagulator.

Laparoscopic Hepatectomy for Liver Cancer

This chapter covers a range of important topics of laparoscopic hepatectomy as a novel approach toward treatment of liver cancer. Although laparoscopic hepatectomy was performed in a limited number of centers in the 1990s, technological innovations, improvements in surgical techniques and accumulation of experience by surgeons have led to more rapid progress in laparoscopic hepatectomy in the late 2000s for minimally invasive hepatic surgery. Currently, laparoscopic hepatectomy can be performed for all tumor locations and several diseases via several approaches. The laparoscopic approach can be applied to several types of resection, not only for tumors but also for liver transplantation, with equivalent or better results compared with those obtained with open surgery. Therefore, laparoscopic hepatectomy will become a standard procedure for treatment of liver cancer in the near future.

Strategies to increase the resectability of hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is best treated by liver transplantation, but the applicability of transplantation is greatly limited. Tumor resection in partial hepatectomy is hence resorted to. However, in most parts of the world, only 20%-30% of HCCs are resectable. The main reason for such a low resectability is a future liver remnant too small to be sufficient for the patient. To allow more HCC patients to undergo curative hepatectomy, a variety of ways have been developed to increase the resectability of HCC, mainly ways to increase the future liver remnants in patients through hypertrophy. They include portal vein embolization, sequential transarterial chemoembolization and portal vein embolization, staged hepatectomy, two-staged hepatectomy with portal vein ligation, and Associating Liver Partition and Portal Vein Ligation in Staged Hepatectomy. Herein we review, describe and evaluate these different ways, ways that can be life-saving.

Preoperative diagnosis with versus without MRI in resection for hepatocellular carcinoma

PURPOSE

Although MRI has been considered one of the most sensitive diagnostic techniques for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a clear-cut beneficial effect of the use of preoperative MRI remains unclear. We assessed whether preoperative MRI has a beneficial effect on outcomes in patients scheduled to undergo resection of HCC.

METHODS

We evaluated 449 patients with 553 liver tumors. MRI was performed in 349 of these patients, but not in the other 100. Ultrasonography, dynamic CT, and angiography were performed in all patients. Diagnostic abilities and long-term outcomes were compared between patients who did and did not undergo MRI.

RESULTS

The MRI group (349 patients) had 419 liver tumors and the no MRI group (100 patients) had 134 tumors. Preoperatively, the size of the HCC did not differ between the MRI (median, 30 mm; range, 10-205) and the no MRI group (median, 34 mm; range, 10-175; P = .99). The diagnostic accuracy was 98% in the MRI group and 96% in the no MRI group. Recurrence-free survival rates at 5 years were 31% (95% CI, 20.9-42.5) in the no MRI group, compared with 26% (95% CI, 20.1-32.1) in the MRI (P = .45). Overall survival rates at 5 years were 57% (95% CI, 45.6-68.1) in the no MRI group and 60% (95% CI, 53.4-66.8) in the MRI group (P = .64). After analysis by propensity score matching in 100 pairs of patients, recurrence-free survival rates at 5 years were 31% (95% CI, 20.9-42.5) in the no MRI group, compared with 19% (95% CI, 10.3-30.9) in the MRI group (P = .54). Overall survival rates at 5 years were 57% (95% CI, 45.6-68.1) in the no MRI group and 57% (95% CI, 43.2-68.8) in the MRI group (P = .92).

CONCLUSION

MRI seemed to offer no beneficial impact on diagnostic abilities or long-term outcomes after resection for HCC and is thus of questionable value as a routine imaging modality when combined with CT and angiography clinical practice.

[Liver transection: modern procedure: Technique, results and costs]

Liver resection has developed into the current standard procedure due to modern resection techniques, profound knowledge of the liver anatomy and optimized surgical and anesthesiological strategies to allow extended resections with both low morbidity and mortality. Initially major blood loss was the biggest concern with liver resection and a Pringle's manoeuvre was necessary. Nowadays, biliary leakage is the major problem after liver surgery. Besides the classical conventional clamp crushing technique for parenchymal transection, various devices including ultrasound, microwaves and staplers have been introduced. Minimally invasive techniques have become increasingly important for liver resection but are still applied in selected patients only. The selection of the resection technique and device mainly depends on the extent of the resection and also on the liver parenchyma, the liver disease, costs, personal experiences and preferences. This article presents a selection of techniques used in modern parenchymal transection during liver resection with special focus on transection time, blood loss, bile leakage and costs.

Reappraisal of the inferior right hepatic vein preserving liver resection

BACKGROUND

To resect tumors infiltrating to the right hepatic vein at its root, right hemihepatectomy or that following portal vein embolization (PVE) is applied. If the IRHV is sizable, the IRHV preserving liver resection can be another option.

METHODS

Between 1994 and 2007, the IRHV preserving liver resection was performed in 21 patients (IRHV group). The short-term outcomes after surgery of them p.

RESULTS

There were no mortality and no significant difference between the IRHV and RH groups concerning the blood loss, the morbidity rates and the duration of hospital stay. The median operation time was shorter in the IRHV group than in the RH group (393 vs. 480 min, p = 0.0409). The median weight of resected specimen of the IRHV group was 293 g (range: 20-982), which was significantly lighter than that of the RH group (median: 680 g [250-4,300], p < 0.001). The median percentage of resected volume to standard liver volume was significantly smaller in the IRHV group than in the RH group (25.8 vs. 52.2%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The IRHV preserving liver resection remains a safe and useful procedure.

Modern technical approaches in resectional hepatic surgery

Techniques in liver surgery have improved considerably during the last decades, allowing for liver resections with low morbidity and mortality. Preoperative patient selection, perioperative management, and intraoperative blood-sparing techniques are the cornerstones of modern liver surgery. Multimodal treatment of colorectal liver metastases has expanded the group of patients who are potential candidates for liver resection. Adjunctive techniques, including preoperative portal vein embolization and staged hepatectomy, have facilitated the safe performance of extensive liver resection. This article provides an overview of indications for liver resection and a systematic description of the technical approach to the most commonly performed resections.

The dissection profile and mechanism of tissue-selective dissection of the piezo actuator-driven pulsed water jet as a surgical instrument: laboratory investigation using Swine liver

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

The water jet technique dissects tissue while sparing cord-like structures such as blood vessels. The mechanism of such tissue-selective dissection has been unknown. The novel piezo actuator-driven pulsed water jet (ADPJ) system can achieve dissection with remarkably reduced water consumption compared to the conventional water jet; however, the system's characteristics and dissection capabilities on any organ have not been clarified. The purposes of this study were to characterize the physical properties of the novel ADPJ system, evaluate the dissection ability in swine organs, and reveal the mechanism of tissue-selective dissection.

METHODS

The pulsed water jet system comprised a pump chamber driven by a piezo actuator, a stainless steel tube, and a nozzle. The peak pressure of the pulsed water jet was measured through a sensing hole using a pressure sensor. The pulsed water jet technique was applied on swine liver in order to dissect tissue on a moving table using one-way linear ejection at a constant speed. The dissection depth was measured with light microscopy and evaluated histologically. The physical properties of swine liver were evaluated by breaking strength tests using tabletop universal testing instruments. The liver parenchyma was also cut with three currently available surgical devices to compare the histological findings.

RESULTS

The peak pressure of the pulsed water jet positively correlated with the input voltage (R(2) = 0.9982, p < 0.0001), and this was reflected in the dissection depth. The dissection depth negatively correlated with the breaking strength of the liver parenchyma (R(2) = 0.6694, p < 0.0001). The average breaking strengths of the liver parenchyma, hepatic veins, and Glisson's sheaths were 1.41 ± 0.45, 8.66 ± 1.70, and 29.6 ± 11.0 MPa, respectively. The breaking strength of the liver parenchyma was significantly lower than that of the hepatic veins and Glisson's sheaths. Histological staining confirmed that the liver parenchyma was selectively dissected, preserving the hepatic veins and Glisson's sheaths in contrast to what is commonly observed with electrocautery or ultrasonic instruments.

CONCLUSIONS

The dissection depth of liver tissue is well controlled by input voltage and is influenced by the moving velocity and the physical properties of the organ. We showed that the device can be used to assure liver resection with tissue selectivity due to tissue-specific physical properties. Although this study uses an excised organ, further in vivo studies are necessary. The present work demonstrates that this device may function as an alternative tool for surgery due to its good controllability of the dissection depth and ability of tissue selectivity.

Decreased blood loss reduces postoperative complications in resection for hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

The correlation between blood loss and the risk of postoperative complications was unclear in patients undergoing resection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS

We studied 539 patients who had resection of HCC. Postoperative complications were recorded according to the modified Clavien-Dindo classification. Variables were compared between patients with grade III to V complications and those with no or grade I to II. A spline regression analysis was used to estimate the probability of grade III to V complications.

RESULTS

Among variables, blood loss (P = 0.0001), operating time (P = 0.0001), blood transfusion (P = 0.0001), and tumor size (P = 0.02) differed significantly between patients with grade III to V and those with no or I to II. Multivariate analysis revealed that the factor most strongly related to complications was blood loss (odds ratio 1.68; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.45-1.96, P = 0.0001). Spline regression analysis showed that an increase in blood loss was accompanied by increase in the risk of complication; when the estimated probability of grade III to V complications exceeded 50% (95% CI 30.0-70.0), the corresponding blood loss was 820 ml.

CONCLUSION

Decrease in blood loss in resection of HCC is accompanied by reduced risk of complications. Surgeons need to minimize blood loss as less as 820 ml.

Radiofrequency vessel-sealing system versus the clamp-crushing technique in liver transection: results of a prospective randomized study on 100 consecutive patients

BACKGROUND

Liver transection is considered a critical factor influencing intra-operative blood loss. A increase in the number of complex liver resections has determined a growing interest in new devices able to 'optimize' the liver transection. The aim of this randomized controlled study was to compare a radiofrequency vessel-sealing system with the 'gold-standard' clamp-crushing technique.

METHODS

From January to December 2012, 100 consecutive patients undergoing a liver resection were randomized to the radiofrequency vessel-sealing system (LF1212 group; N = 50) or to the clamp-crushing technique (Kelly group, N = 50).

RESULTS

Background characteristics of the two groups were similar. There were not significant differences between the two groups in terms of blood loss, transection time and transection speed. In spite of a not-significant larger transection area in the LF1212 group compared with the Kelly group (51.5 versus 39 cm(2) , P = 0.116), the overall and 'per cm(2) ' blood losses were similar whereas the transection speed was better (even if not significantly) in the LF1212 group compared with the Kelly group (1.1 cm(2) /min versus 0.8, P = 0.089). Mortality, morbidity and bile leak rates were similar in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The radiofrequency vessel-sealing system allows a quick and safe liver transection similar to the gold-standard clamp-crushing technique.

Debakey forceps crushing technique for hepatic parenchymal transection in liver surgery: a review of 100 cases and ergonomic advantages

Introduction and Objective. Bleeding is an important complication in liver transections. To determine the safety and efficacy of Debakey forceps for liver parenchymal transection and its ergonomic advantages over clamp crushing method we analysed our data. Methods. We used Debakey crushing technique in 100 liver resections and analysed data for transection time, transfusion rate, morbidity, mortality, hospital stay, influence of different types of liver conditions, and ergonomi features of Debakey forceps. Results. Mean age, transection time and hospital stay of 100 patients were 52.38 ± 17.44 years, 63.36 ± 33.4 minutes, and 10.27 ± 5.7 days. Transection time, and hospital stay in patients with cirrhotic liver (130.4 ± 44.4 mins, 14.6 ± 5.5 days) and cholestatic liver (75.8 ± 19.7 mins, 16.5 ± 5.1 days) were significantly greater than in patients with normal liver (48.1 ± 20.1 mins, 6.7 ± 1.8 days) (P < 0.01). Transection time improved significantly with experience (first fifty versus second fifty cases-70.2 ± 31.1 mins versus 56.5 ± 34.5 mins, P < 0.04). Qualitative evaluation revealed that Debakey forceps had ergonomic advantages over Kelly clamp. Conclusions. Debakey forceps crushing technique is safe and effective for liver parenchymal transection in all kinds of liver. Transection time improves with surgeon's experience. It has ergonomic advantages over Kelly clamp and is a better choice for liver transection.

Prophylactic impact of endoscopic treatment for esophageal varices in liver resection: a prospective study

BACKGROUND

Prophylactic treatment for esophageal varices has been performed without adequate supporting evidence. We assessed the feasibility of prophylactic and follow-up treatment for high-risk esophageal varices in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS

Patients with HCC were screened prospectively and followed up for esophageal varices and gastroduodenal ulceration. High-risk esophageal varices (huge F3 varices or intermediate F2 varices positive for red color signs) were treated prophylactically. Follow-up endoscopy was performed to assess the impact of prophylaxis and changes in varices at 1 week, 1 month, and 6 months after operation. If high-risk varices were found during follow-up, secondary prophylaxis was performed according to the same criteria.

RESULTS

Among 251 patients with HCC, 81 (32.3 %) had esophageal varices on screening endoscopy. Prophylactic endoscopic treatment was required by 13 patients (1 with F3 varices and 12 with F2 varices positive for red color signs). Ten varices worsened, and 4 varices progressed to high-risk varices requiring endoscopic treatment. No F0 or F1 varices at screening endoscopy progressed to high-risk varices, and no bleeding event occurred during 6 months of preplanned follow-up. A preoperative platelet count of less than 10 × 10(4)/μL (odds ratio: 4.21, 95 % confidence interval 3.11-10.6; p < 0.001), the presence of splenomegaly (2.87, 2.16-21.8; p = 0.011), and an indocyanine green retention rate at 15 min of greater than 30 % (2.31, 1.88-24.6; p = 0.026) were independent predictors of worsening varices.

CONCLUSIONS

Our protocol for prophylactic and follow-up treatment of high-risk esophageal varices was feasible in patients with HCC.

Methods to decrease blood loss during liver resection: a network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Liver resection is a major surgery with significant mortality and morbidity. Various methods have been attempted to decrease blood loss and morbidity during elective liver resection. These methods include different methods of vascular occlusion, parenchymal transection, and management of the cut surface of the liver. A surgeon typically uses only one of the methods from each of these three categories. Together, one can consider this combination as a treatment strategy. The optimal treatment strategy for liver resection is unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the comparative benefits and harms of different treatment strategies that aim to decrease blood loss during elective liver resection.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Science Citation Index Expanded to July 2012 to identify randomised clinical trials. We also handsearched the references lists of identified trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included only randomised clinical trials (irrespective of language, blinding, or publication status) where the method of vascular occlusion, parenchymal transection, and management of the cut surface were clearly reported, and where people were randomly assigned to different treatment strategies based on different combinations of the three categories (vascular occlusion, parenchymal transection, cut surface).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors identified trials and collected data independently. We assessed the risk of bias using The Cochrane Collaboration's methodology. We conducted a Bayesian network meta-analysis using the Markov chain Monte Carlo method in WinBUGS 1.4 following the guidelines of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Decision Support Unit guidance documents. We calculated the odds ratios (OR) with 95% credible intervals (CrI) (which are similar to confidence intervals in the frequentist approach for meta-analysis) for the binary outcomes and mean differences (MD) with 95% CrI for continuous outcomes using a fixed-effect model or random-effects model according to model-fit.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified nine trials with 617 participants that met our inclusion criteria. Interventions in the trials included three different options for vascular occlusion, four for parenchymal transection, and two for management of the cut liver surface. These interventions were combined in different ways in the trials giving 11 different treatment strategies. However, we were only able to include 496 participants randomised to seven different treatment strategies from seven trials in our network meta-analysis, because the treatment strategies from the trials that used fibrin sealant for management of the raw liver surface could not be connected to the network for any outcomes. Thus, the trials included in the network meta-analysis varied only in their approaches to vascular exclusion and parenchymal transection and none used fibrin sealant. All the trials were of high risk of bias and the quality of evidence was very low for all the outcomes. The differences in mortality between the different strategies was imprecise (seven trials; seven treatment strategies; 496 participants). Five trials (six strategies; 406 participants) reported serious adverse events. There was an increase in the proportion of people with serious adverse events when surgery was performed using radiofrequency dissecting sealer compared with the standard clamp-crush method in the absence of vascular occlusion and fibrin sealant. The OR for the difference in proportion was 7.13 (95% CrI 1.77 to 28.65; 15/49 (adjusted proportion 24.9%) in radiofrequency dissecting sealer group compared with 6/89 (6.7%) in the clamp-crush method). The differences in serious adverse events between the other groups were imprecise. There was a high probability that 'no vascular occlusion with clamp-crush method and no fibrin' and 'intermittent vascular occlusion with Cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator and no fibrin' are better than other treatments with regards to serious adverse events. Quality of life was not reported in any of the trials.The differences in the proportion of people requiring blood transfusion was imprecise (six trials; seven treatments; 446 participants). Two trials (three treatments; 155 participants) provided data for quantity of blood transfused. People undergoing liver resection by intermittent vascular occlusion had higher amounts of blood transfused than people with continuous vascular occlusion when the parenchymal transection was carried out with the clamp-crush method and no fibrin sealant was used for the cut surface (MD 1.2 units; 95% CrI 0.08 to 2.32). The differences in the other comparisons were imprecise (very low quality evidence). Three trials (four treatments; 281 participants) provided data for operative blood loss. People undergoing liver resection using continuous vascular occlusion had lower blood loss than people with no vascular occlusion when the parenchymal transection was carried out with clamp-crush method and no fibrin sealant was used for the cut surface (MD -130.9 mL; 95% CrI -255.9 to -5.9). None of the trials reported the proportion of people with major blood loss.The differences in the length of hospital stay (six trials; seven treatments; 446 participants) and intensive therapy unit stay (four trials; six treatments; 261 participants) were imprecise. Four trials (four treatments; 245 participants) provided data for operating time. Liver resection by intermittent vascular occlusion took longer than liver resection performed with no vascular occlusion when the parenchymal transection was carried out with Cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator and no fibrin sealant was used for the cut surface (MD 49.6 minutes; 95% CrI 29.8 to 69.4). The differences in the operating time between the other comparisons were imprecise. None of the trials reported the time needed to return to work.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Very low quality evidence suggested that liver resection using a radiofrequency dissecting sealer without vascular occlusion or fibrin sealant may increase serious adverse events and this should be evaluated in further randomised clinical trials. The risk of serious adverse events with liver resection using no special equipment compared with more complex methods requiring special equipment was uncertain due to the very low quality of the evidence. The credible intervals were wide and considerable benefit or harm with a specific method of liver resection cannot be ruled out.

Gas jet transection of liver parenchima: experimental research

BACKGROUND

There exists a great variety of liver parenchyma transection techniques. The objective of this research is to develop a new method of liver transection, and to compare it with the traditional ones.

METHODS

An original gas jet transection method of biological tissues and the apparatus "Pneumojet" to make the method practicable were developed in our institute. Comparison between the efficiency of gas jet, water jet, ultrasonic methods of liver transection and clamp crushing technique were carried out on 24 mini-pigs. Pringle maneuver was not included.

RESULTS

The mean blood loss was the smallest in the group of animals that had a gas jet transection (3.5±0.15 mL/cm(2)) but the highest in the clamp crushing technique group (5.5±0.46 mL/cm(2)). Indicators significantly showed the statistical difference (P<0.001). The transection speed was the highest in the Clamp crushing technique group (2.9±0.25 cm(2)/min) and was credibly higher than in the gas jet (2.4±0.16 cm(2)/min), ultrasonic (2.4±0.13 cm(2)/min) and water jet (2.5±0.14 cm(2)/min) transection groups. Compared with the water jet and ultrasonic methods of liver transection, the original method does not have statistically significant distinctions on the basic indexes of work.

CONCLUSIONS

The research conducted proves high efficiency and safety of the gas jet transection method. The gas jet transection, therefore, could be recommended for further improvement and clinical application.

Liver resection using cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator (CUSA) versus harmonic scalpel: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of two device combinations used in parenchymal division during hepatic resections in non-cirrhotic patients and without inflow vascular occlusion.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 47 patients who underwent liver resection at our Institution from 2004 to 2010 using the TissueLink with either the Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator (CUSA) or the Harmonic Scalpel. The TissueLink was used with the CUSA in 27 patients and with the Harmonic Scalpel in 20 patients.

RESULTS

Median estimated blood loss (EBL) in the Harmonic Scalpel and CUSA groups was 250 and 1035 mL respectively (p < 0.05). Three patients were transfused banked blood perioperatively in the Harmonic Scalpel group and 11 in the CUSA group (p < 0.05). Median operative time in the Harmonic Scalpel and CUSA groups was 185 and 290 min respectively. Length of stay (LOS) was shorter in the Harmonic Scalpel group at 6 days compared to 7 days in the CUSA group (p < 0.05). Perioperative complications were documented in 20% and 26% in the Harmonic Scalpel and CUSA groups, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show the Harmonic Scalpel with TissueLink to be a safe, effective method of parenchymal division with significantly less EBL and LOS when compared to CUSA with TissueLink.

Methods of haemostasis during liver resection--a UK national survey

BACKGROUND

Although haemorrhage is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in liver surgery, there is very little available guidance on its management.

METHODS

The aim of this study was to identify current practice in the UK in this regard. An online survey was created and hepatobiliary (HPB) specialists who were members of a specialist society and others who were known practitioners were invited by e-mail to complete the survey anonymously.

RESULTS

Fifty-one percent responded (n = 36/70), and most of these respondents worked at large HPB centres (>100 liver resections/year; n = 24, 66%). Not all questionnaires were fully completed by the individual surgeons. Thirty-eight percent of the surgeons routinely used Pringle's manoeuvre. Most surgeons used ligation of the inflow vessels (n = 16, 44%) and stapled the outflow vessels (n = 15, 42%). The Cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator (CUSA; 54%, 13/24) was preferred for parenchymal transection. The majority routinely used haemostatic adjuncts (n = 22, 62%), whilst 33% (n = 12) used them occasionally. Twenty-three (64%) felt manufactured haemostatic adjuncts played a major role in maintaining haemostasis and 19 preferred fibrin-based products.

CONCLUSION

The Pringle manoeuvre is a popular technique amongst specialist UK liver surgeons and the CUSA is used by nearly half of the surgeons. Despite the absence of definitive evidence for their benefit, manufactured haemostatic adjuncts are still widely used, especially the fibrin-based adjuncts.

Minimizing blood loss during hepatectomy: a literature review

There are numerous techniques surgeons employ to reduce blood loss during partial hepatectomy. In this literature review, prospective studies from the last 20 years are examined to determine the techniques that are best supported by the literature. Some of the techniques include vascular control, multiple parenchymal transection techniques, various hemostatic agents, low central venous pressure, and hemodilution. The strategies supported most convincingly by the literature include low CVP and total hepatic inflow occlusion.

A prospective randomized controlled trial of hemostasis with a bipolar sealer during hepatic transection for liver resection

BACKGROUND

Excessive intraoperative blood loss and the possible requirement for blood transfusion are major problems in hepatic resection for liver tumors. The decrease of blood loss is a goal in liver surgery, and several technical developments have been introduced for this purpose. The aim of this prospective randomized study was to compare the use of the Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator (CUSA) with a radiofrequency-based bipolar hemostatic sealer versus CUSA with standard bipolar cautery (BC) in patients undergoing hepatic resection.

METHODS

One hundred nine patients with liver tumors were randomized to undergo hepatic transection via CUSA with a bipolar sealer (Aquamantys 2.3 Bipolar Sealer; n = 55) or BC (n = 54). Blood loss during parenchymal transection and speed of transection were the primary end points, whereas the degree of postoperative liver injury and morbidity were secondary end points.

RESULTS

Compared with the BC group, the bipolar sealer showed lesser blood loss during transection and blood loss divided by resection area (P = .0079 and .0008, respectively), shorter transection time (P = .0025), faster speed of transection (P < .0001), and fewer ties and ties divided by resection area required during transection (P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

CUSA with a bipolar sealer is superior to CUSA with standard BC for various hepatectomy in terms of less blood loss and faster speed of transection, with no increase in morbidity.

Comparative analysis of different transection techniques in minor and major hepatic resections: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

In liver surgery different transection techniques are available without clear evidence regarding indication and advantage for each technique. The aim of this study was to identify the most superior liver transection technique between the different techniques (stapler, water-jet and electrocautery). Comparative analyses were performed for minor and major hepatectomies.

METHODS

In a single-center study, all liver resections performed between July 2007 and July 2012 were prospectively recorded and analysed.

RESULTS

366 liver resections were included according to predefined eligibility criteria. No clear benefit for one particular technique in minor or major hepatectomy could be shown. Cost-effectiveness analysis revealed disadvantages for stapler-hepatectomies. However, minor hepatectomies were performed with significantly lower morbidity (p < 0.001), lower operating time (p = 0.001), fewer need of transfusion (p < 0.0001) and shorter ICU stay (p = 0.001) than major hepatectomies.

CONCLUSIONS

If possible, minor hepatectomies should be chosen. Competing techniques, selected according to surgeon's preference, revealed no significant differences in primary outcome measures.

Usefulness of vessel-sealing devices combined with crush clamping method for hepatectomy: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Blood loss during resection of the hepatic parenchyma in hepatectomy can be minimized using vessel-sealing (VS) devices. Some sealing devices were retrospectively compared to evaluate the efficacy of each device for controlling blood loss, transection time and postoperative complications in hepatectomy as a cohort study.

METHODS

Between 2005 and September 2012, hepatectomy was underwent in 150 patients using one of three types of LigaSure™ (Dolphin Tip Laparoscopic Instrument, Precise or Small Jaw) or the Harmonic Focus or Ace ultrasonic dissecting sealer. Results were compared to crush-clamping alone as the control method by the historical study (n = 81).

RESULTS

Irrespective of the vessel-sealing device used for underlying chronic hepatitis, blood loss, blood transfusion rate, operating time and transection time were significantly reduced in the VS group compared with controls (p < 0.05). Rates of postoperative bile leakage and intra-abdominal abscess formation were significantly lower in the VS group than in controls (p < 0.05). Comparing devices, LigaSure Small Jaw and Harmonic Focus showed lower blood loss, shorter transection time and reduced rates of post-hepatectomy complications, in turn resulting in shorter hospital stays (p < 0.05). Tendencies toward uncontrolled ascites and bile leakage were only concern with the use of Harmonic Focus. Satisfactory surgical results were achieved using the sealing device for laparoscopic hepatectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of energy sealing devices improves surgical results and avoids hepatectomy-related complications. Adequate use of vessel sealers is necessary for safe and rapid completion of hepatic resection.

Technology-Assisted Versus Clamp-Crush Liver Resection

Objective. To review the published evidence on technology-assisted liver resection regarding operative time, intraoperative bleeding, mortality, hospital stay, postoperative bile leak, and other outcomes. Method. A systematic review of clinical studies comparing liver resection using vessel sealing systems (VSSs—LigaSure), Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator (CUSA), or radiofrequency dissecting sealer (RFDS) with the conventional clamp-crushing technique (CC) was performed. Data for each modality were synthesized and individually compared with CC with the methodology of meta-analysis. Result. In all, 8 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 7 nonrandomized studies evaluating 1539 patients were included. Compared with CC, the VSS group (3 RCTs and 3 nonrandomized studies) had significantly lower blood loss by a mean of 109 mL (weighted mean difference [WMD] = −109; 95% confidence interval [CI] = −192, −26; data on 494 patients), lower risk for postoperative bile leak by 63% (odds ratio [OR] = 0.37; CI = 0.17, 0.78; 559 patients), and shorter total hospital stay by 2 days (WMD = −2.04; CI = −3.08, −1; 340 patients); no difference was noted for liver parenchyma transection time and mortality. No difference was noted between CUSA (4 RCTs and 1 nonrandomized study) or RFDS (3 RCTs and 3 nonrandomized studies) versus CC for any of the studied outcomes. Conclusion. Of the 3 modalities used in liver resection (VSS, CUSA, and RFDS), only VSS appeared to offer significant benefit over standard CC. However, the generalization of our findings is limited by the scarcity and clinical heterogeneity of the published studies. Large, well-designed and implemented RCTs are warranted to further investigate the usefulness of novel modalities used in liver resection.

Meta-analysis of intermittent Pringle manoeuvre versus no Pringle manoeuvre in elective liver surgery

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Intermittent Pringle manoeuvre (IPM) is frequently used during liver surgery. This meta-analysis aimed to review the impact on blood loss, operating time and morbidity and mortality with and without use of IPM.

METHODS

An electronic search was performed of the MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed databases using both subject headings (MeSH) and truncated word searches to identify all articles published that related to this topic. Pooled risk ratios were calculated for categorical outcomes, and mean differences (MDs) for secondary continuous outcomes, using the fixed-effects and random-effects models for meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Four randomized controlled trials encompassing 392 patients were analysed to achieve a summated outcome. Pooled data analysis showed the use of IPM resulted in reduced transection time/cm(2) (MD -0.53 (-0.88, -0.18) min/cm(2) (P = 0.003)) but with comparable blood loss (mL/cm(2)) (MD -1.67 (-4.41, 1.08) mL/cm(2), P = 0.23), overall blood loss (MD -20.42 (-89.42, 48.58) mL), blood transfusion requirements (risk ratio 0.78 (0.40, 1.52, P = 0.47)) and morbidity and mortality compared to no Pringle manoeuvre. In addition, there was no significant difference in the post-operative hospital stay (MD 0.37 (-0.60, 1.34) days).

CONCLUSIONS

There is no evidence that the routine use of IPM improves perioperative and post-operative outcomes compared to no Pringle manoeuvre and its routine may not be recommended.

Complications of liver resection: laparoscopic versus open procedures

Complications appear to be lower in laparoscopic cases versus open cases for anterolateral and posterosuperior hepatic segment surgery.

Background and Objective:

Minimally invasive surgery for liver resection remains controversial. This study was designed to compare open versus laparoscopic surgical approaches to liver resection.

Methods:

We performed a single-center retrospective chart review.

Results:

We compared 45 laparoscopic liver resections with 17 open cases having equivalent resections based on anatomy and diagnosis. The overall complication rate was 25.8%. More open resection patients had complications (52.9% vs 15.5%, P < .008). The conversion rate was 11.1%. The mean blood loss was 667.1 ± 1450 mL in open cases versus 47.8 ± 89 mL in laparoscopic cases (P < .0001). Measures of intravenous narcotic use, intensive care unit length of stay, and hospital length of stay all favored the laparoscopic group. Patients were more likely to have complications or morbidity in the open resection group than in the laparoscopic group for both the anterolateral (P < .085) and posterosuperior (P < .002) resection subgroups.

Conclusion:

In this series comparing laparoscopic and open liver resections, there were fewer complications, more rapid recovery, and lower morbidity in the laparoscopic group, even for those resections involving the posterosuperior segments of the liver.

Left hepatic trisectionectomy for advanced perihilar cholangiocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Data on outcomes of left hepatic trisectionectomy (LT) for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma are limited. The aim of this study was to clarify short- and long-term outcomes of LT for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma.

METHODS

Patients with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma who underwent LT between January 2000 and October 2011 were analysed. Surgical variables, mortality, morbidity (Clavien grade I-V), recurrence sites and survival were compared between subjects who underwent LT, right hemihepatectomy or left hemihepatectomy.

RESULTS

A total 214 patients underwent resection for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma, 25 (11·7 per cent) of whom underwent LT, 88 (41·1 per cent) right hemihepatectomy and 94 (43·9 per cent) left hepatectomy. There were no deaths among those who had LT, but 20 patients developed complications. The incidence of grade IIIa complications was significantly higher among patients who underwent LT than in patients who had right or left hemihepatectomy (P = 0·001 and P < 0·001 respectively). Only one patient developed a grade IIIb or IV complication (liver failure) after LT. The overall 5-year survival rate after LT was 39 per cent and median survival was 45 months. There were no significant differences in survival between patients who underwent LT and those who had a right or left hemihepatectomy.

CONCLUSION

LT may provide a good outcome for advanced perihilar cholangiocarcinoma.

A worldwide survey of the current daily practice in liver surgery

BACKGROUND

Liver resection remains the mainstay of curative treatment for liver malignancies. A variety of preoperative assessments and surgical techniques have improved the short- and long-term outcomes of liver resection in patients with liver tumors. Recently, laparoscopic hepatectomies have been increasingly performed. The aim of the present study is to survey the current practice of liver surgery in high-volume centers in the world.

METHODS

A questionnaire on the preoperative assessment for liver surgery, open hepatectomy, and laparoscopic hepatectomy was sent to 94 liver centers in the world.

RESULTS

Forty-two centers (45%) responded to this survey (29 Asian, 9 European, and 4 North American centers). All but one of the centers evaluated the future liver remnant (FLR) volume, and 95% of them performed preoperative portal vein embolization to increase the FLR volume. In half of the centers, the required FLR volume was over 30% in patients with normal liver and 50% in patients with cirrhotic liver. To reduce the intraoperative blood loss, half of the centers routinely used Pringle's maneuver, and 85% restricted the intraoperative fluid infusion to reduce the central venous pressure. More than 10 laparoscopic hepatectomies were performed per year in 62% of the centers, and more than 30 were performed in 26%, respectively. Laparoscopic major hepatectomies were performed in 24%. Two-thirds answered that the laparoscopic approach would be feasible in donor hepatectomy.

CONCLUSION

The evaluation of FLR volume in patients with normal or cirrhotic liver and the usage of preoperative portal vein embolization have become essential practice in more than 90% of the centers. Reduced blood loss has been achieved using Pringle's maneuver, restriction of fluid infusion, and a variety of surgical devises. The laparoscopic approach is increasingly extended to major hepatectomy or donor hepatectomy.

Criteria for drain removal following liver resection

BACKGROUND

Abdominal drains have been placed prophylactically and removed in liver resection without robust evidence. The present study was designed to establish the optimal time for removal of such drains.

METHODS

Data on abdominal prophylactic drains were analysed in a consecutive series of patients who underwent liver resection for malignancy between 2006 and 2009. Bilirubin levels in drain fluid were measured and bacteriological cultures were taken on days 1, 3, 5 and 7 after surgery. Drains were removed on day 3 if the drain-fluid bilirubin level was less than 5 mg/dl and bacteriological cultures were negative. Drains remained in situ until these conditions were met.

RESULTS

A total of 514 abdominal drains were placed in 316 patients operated on in the study period. Fifty-eight patients (18·4 per cent) had positive drain-fluid cultures and 14 (4·4 per cent) had bile leakage (drain-fluid bilirubin level 5 mg/dl or more). Only one patient required ultrasound-guided abdominal drainage. On multivariable analysis, drain-fluid bilirubin level on day 3 after surgery was the strongest predictor of infection (odds ratio 15·11, 95 per cent confidence interval 3·04 to 92·11; P < 0·001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve on day 3 had the highest predictive value: 83·6 per cent accuracy and 3·9 per cent false-positive rate for a drain-fluid bilirubin level of 3·01 mg/dl (51·5 µmol/l).

CONCLUSION

The '3 × 3 rule' (drain-fluid bilirubin level below 3 mg/dl on day 3 after operation) is an accurate criterion for removal of prophylactically placed abdominal drains in liver resection.

Comparison of liver parenchymal ablation and tissue necrosis in a cadaveric bovine model using the Harmonic Scalpel, the LigaSure, the Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator and the Aquamantys devices

OBJECTIVES

The amount of tissue that is ablated or necrosed at the line of parenchymal transection is of clinical significance in the interpretation of resection margin status following hepatic resection. The aim of this study was to define the extent of parenchymal ablation and necrosis in liver tissue using the Harmonic Scalpel, the LigaSure, the Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator (CUSA) and the Aquamantys dissector ex vivo.

METHODS

Mounted blocks of non-perfused bovine liver were transected using the Harmonic Scalpel, LigaSure, CUSA and Aquamantys devices. Outcome measures included parenchymal ablation (ablation band widths and weights) and tissue necrosis band widths along the line of transection. Each experiment was replicated five times.

RESULTS

All devices were associated with parenchymal ablation (Harmonic Scalpel, 4.73 ± 1.62 mm; LigaSure, 4.55 ± 2.02 mm; CUSA, 7.16 ± 2.87 mm; Aquamantys, 4.75 ± 1.43 mm) and tissue necrosis (Harmonic Scalpel, 1.07 ± 0.46 mm; LigaSure, 1.36 ± 0.36 mm; CUSA, 0.81 ± 0.21 mm; Aquamantys, 0.81 ± 0.36 mm).

CONCLUSIONS

The Harmonic Scalpel, LigaSure, CUSA and Aquamantys devices were associated with bands of tissue loss along the hepatic parenchymal transection line in this benchtop cadaveric model. This should be taken into account in the interpretation of resection margin status following liver resection.

Radiofrequency-assisted liver resection with a comb-shaped bipolar device versus clamp crushing: a clinical study

BACKGROUND

In liver surgery, clamp-crushing (CC) procedure has been shown to be the most efficient system for liver transection. Recently, it has been suggested that radiofrequency-assisted liver resection (RFALR) may be more advantageous, but sufficient evidence has yet to be accumulated.

METHOD

The control group was constituted by 32 patients undergoing CC liver transection. The study group included 13 patients undergoing RFALR with a new fully automated radiofrequency generator supplying a comb-shaped bipolar multielectrode device.

RESULTS

RFALR allowed a faster hepatic transection and reduced both surgical time and intraoperative blood loss. RFALR was the only independent prognostic indicator of bleeding during liver transection. No significant liver damage and postoperative complications, particularly biliary leakage and stenosis, were experienced in the RFALR group.

CONCLUSION

Compared with the CC procedure, this bipolar device was shown to be safe and effective in liver resections, allowing a very clean surgical field without increase of postoperative complications.

Bleeding in Hepatic Surgery: Sorting through Methods to Prevent It

Liver resections are demanding operations which can have life threatening complications although they are performed by experienced liver surgeons. The parameter "Blood Loss" has a central role in liver surgery, and different strategies to minimize it are a key to improve results. Moreover, recently, new technologies are applied in the field of liver surgery, having one goal: safer and easier liver operations. The aim of this paper is to review the different principal solutions to the problem of blood loss in hepatic surgery, focusing on technical aspects of new devices.

Liver resections: complications and survival outcome

Today, liver resection represents one of the most effective therapies in the treatment of defined liver diseases, particularly for hepatocellular carcinomas, liver metastases and tumors originating from the bile ducts. There have been a number of improvements in the technique but the use of kellyclasia associated with meticulous control of hemostasis and biliostasis appears to be more effective and efficient. The procedure is still burdened with some postoperative complications, the more characteristic of which are liver insufficiency, biliary leakage and ascites. Several neoplastic diseases, both primitive and secondary, can benefit from this therapy with substantial improvement of long-term survival, and a notable change in the natural history of the disease. For these situations, a consultation should always be performed by a surgeon experienced in hepatic surgery.