Prediction and limitation of hepatic tumor resection without blood transfusion in cirrhotic patients

Effect of hyperbilirubinemia on the accuracy of continuous non-invasive hemoglobin measurements in liver transplantation recipients

This study evaluated the effect of hyperbilirubinemia on the accuracy of continuous non-invasive hemoglobin (SpHb) measurements in liver transplantation recipients. Overall, 1465 SpHb and laboratory hemoglobin (Hb) measurement pairs (n = 296 patients) were analyzed. Patients were grouped into normal (< 1.2 mg/dL), mild-to-moderate (1.2-3.0 mg/dL), and severe (> 3.0 mg/dL) hyperbilirubinemia groups based on the preoperative serum total bilirubin levels. Bland-Altman analysis showed a bias of 0.20 (95% limit of agreement, LoA: - 2.59 to 3.00) g/dL, 0.98 (95% LoA: - 1.38 to 3.35) g/dL, and 1.23 (95% LoA: - 1.16 to 3.63) g/dL for the normal, mild-to-moderate, and severe groups, respectively. The four-quadrant plot showed reliable trending ability in all groups (concordance rate > 92%). The rates of possible missed transfusion (SpHb > 7.0 g/dL for Hb < 7.0 g/dL) were higher in the hyperbilirubinemia groups (2%, 7%, and 12% for the normal, mild-to-moderate, and severe group, respectively. all P < 0.001). The possible over-transfusion rate was less than 1% in all groups. In conclusion, the use of SpHb in liver transplantation recipients with preoperative hyperbilirubinemia requires caution due to the positive bias and high risk of missed transfusion. However, the reliable trending ability indicated its potential use in clinical settings.

Concomitant Hepatectomy and Atrial Thrombectomy under Cardiopulmonary Bypass versus Staged Hepatectomy in the Treatment for Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Large Right Atrial Tumor Thrombi

(1) Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with a large right atrium tumor thrombus (RATT) is a rare and critical presentation. Emergency hepatectomy and thrombectomy under cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is life-saving and potentially curative. The aim of this study is to propose an appropriate approach for this condition. (2) Methods: In period A (1998 to 2010, n = 7), hepatectomy and thrombectomy were concomitantly performed, and staged hepatectomy was performed in period B (2011 to 2018, n = 17). (3) Results: The median overall survival time (MOST) in the published studies was 14 months. Moreover, the blood loss, blood transfusion rate, length of ICU stays, and hospital costs were significantly reduced in period B. The MOSTs of patients in period A (n = 6) and period B (n = 17) were 14 vs. 18 months (p = 0.099). The median disease-free survival times (MDFTs) in period A (n = 6) and period B (n = 15) were 8 vs. 14 months (p = 0.073), while the MOSTs in period A and period B were 14 vs. 24 months (p = 0.040). (4) Conclusions: Emergency thrombectomy under CPB and staged hepatectomy 4–6 weeks later may be an appropriate approach for HCC with large RATT. However, the optimal waiting interval requires further investigation.

A novel online calculator to predict perioperative blood transfusion in patients undergoing liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma: an international multicenter study

BACKGROUND

To develop an easy-to-use model to predict the probability of perioperative blood transfusion (PBT) in patients undergoing liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHOD

878 patients from Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital of Shanghai were enrolled in the training cohort, while 691 patients from Tongji Hospital of Wuhan and 364 patients from two hospitals from Europe and America served as the Eastern and Western external validation cohorts, respectively. Independent predictors of PBT were identified and used for the nomogram construction. The predictive performance of the model was assessed using the concordance index (C-index) and calibration plot, and externally validated using the two independent cohorts. This model was compared with four currently available prediction risk scores.

RESULTS

Eight preoperative variables were identified as independent predictors of PBT, which were incorporated into the new nomogram model, with a C-index of 0.833 and a well-fitted calibration plot. The nomogram performed well on the externally Eastern and Western validation cohorts (C-indexes: 0.786 and 0.777). The discriminatory ability of the nomogram was superior to the four currently available prediction scores (C-indexes: 0.833 vs. 0.671-0.770). The nomogram was programmed into an online calculator, which is available at http://www.asapcalculate.top/Cal3_en.html.

CONCLUSION

A nomogram model, using an easy-to-access website, can be used to calculate the PBT risk and identify which patients undergoing HCC resection are at high risks of PBT and can benefit most by using blood conservation techniques.

Packed red blood cell donor age affects overall survival in transfused patients undergoing hepatectomy for non-hepatocellular malignancy

BACKGROUND

Patients undergoing hepatectomy often require packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion, which has been associated with worse oncologic outcomes. However, limited data exist regarding the impact of PRBC donor factors. We hypothesized that PRBC donor age impacts survival after hepatectomy for non-hepatocellular malignancies.

METHODS

Patients who underwent hepatectomy for non-hepatocellular malignancy from 2005 to 2014 were retrospectively evaluated. Impact of clinicopathologic and PRBC factors on oncologic outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS

Of 149 identified patients, 76 received a perioperative PRBC transfusion (median 2 units). Transfusion was associated with increased median length of stay (8 vs. 6 days; p < 0.01) and median operative blood loss (700 vs. 350 mL; p < 0.01) versus non-transfused, respectively. In transfused patients, receipt of PRBC from older donors compared to younger resulted in decreased RFS (0.94 vs. 2.63 years, respectively; p = 0.02) and OS (1.94 vs. 3.44 years, respectively; p = 0.6). The PRBC donor age was an independent predictor of decreased recurrence free survival on multivariate analysis (HR 2.5, p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients undergoing hepatectomy for non-hepatocellular malignancies and receiving perioperative transfusion, PRBC donor age may impact survival and warrants further investigation.

Progress of liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in Taiwan

Taiwan is a well-known endemic area of hepatitis B. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has consistently been the first or second highest cause of cancer death over the past 20 years. This review article describes the progress of liver resection for HCC in Taiwan in the past half century. The mortality rate for HCC resection was 15-30% in Taiwan in the 1970s. The rate decreased to 8-12% in the early 1990s, and it declined to <1-3% recently. The development of new operative instruments, and surgical techniques, increased knowledge of liver anatomy and pathophysiology after hepatectomy, and more precise patient selection have contributed to this improvement. The use of intermittent hepatic inflow blood occlusion, a restrictive blood transfusion policy and intraoperative ultrasonography, have also led to substantial improvements in resectability and safety for HCC resection in Taiwan. Advances in non-operative modalities for HCC treatment have also helped to improve long-term outcomes of HCC resection. Technical innovations have allowed the application of complex procedures such as mesohepatectomy, unroofing hepatectomy, major portal vein thrombectomy, hepatic vein reconstruction in resection of the cranial part with preservation of the caudal part of the liver, and inferior vena cava and right atrium tumor thrombectomy under cardiopulmonary bypass. In selected patients, including patients with end-stage renal failure, renal graft recipients, patients with portal hypertension, hypersplenic thrombocytopenia and/or associated gastroesophageal varices, octogenarian, ruptured HCC, recurrent HCC and metastatic HCC can also be resected with satisfactory survival benefits. We conclude that the results of liver resection for HCC in Taiwan are improving. The indications for HCC resection continue extending with lower the surgical risks and increasing the long-term survival rate.

Impact of severe oesophagogastric varices on liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to clarify both short-term and long-term results of patients with concomitant hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and high-risk oesophagogastric varices (OGV).

METHODS

This retrospective study identified 927 cirrhotic patients who underwent curative resection of HCC between 1995 and 2012 in single institution. Patients were separated into 3 groups (A, B, and C) according to general rules for recording endoscopic findings of oesophagogastric varices proposed in Japan in 1991. Groups A, B, and C consisted of patients without OGV (F0), patients with mild to moderate OGV (F1 to F2), and patients with high-risk OGV (F3 and/or red color sign), respectively. All patients in group C underwent prophylactic endoscopic variceal ligation/sclerotherapy. Post-operative complications, mortality, overall survival, and disease-free survival were compared among 3 groups.

RESULTS

No patient had post-operative variceal bleeding. Complication rates of Clavien-Dindo grade II to V in three groups were 13.6, 14.0, and 6.9 %, respectively (P > 0.05). Operative mortality, 5-year overall survival rate, and disease-free survival rate among the 3 groups were not significantly different (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Prophylactic endoscopic variceal ligation/sclerotherapy effectively prevented from post-operative variceal bleeding in patients with high-risk OGV. Operative mortality, major morbidity, and survival of patients with high-risk OGV were similar to those of patients without OGV or those with mild OGV. Liver resection remains a feasible choice for cirrhotic patients with concomitant HCC and high-risk OGV.

Post-hepatectomy haemorrhage: a single-centre experience

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to explore the incidence and causes of intra-abdominal haemorrhage after hepatectomy, indications for re-exploration, and factors affecting occurrence.

METHODS

Clinical data for 77 patients (0.2% of 32 856 hepatectomy patients) submitted to re-exploration for haemorrhage following hepatectomy for primary liver cancer (PLC) from 2001 to 2010 were retrospectively reviewed and analysed for postoperative complications, potential site and cause of bleeding.

RESULTS

The median interval between hepatectomy and re-exploration was 23 h in the 77 patients (range: 1 h to 11 days). Re-exploration occurred within 24 h after hepatectomy in 64 patients (83.1%), and within 8 h in 37 patients (48.1%). The most common anatomic site of intra-abdominal haemorrhage was the cut surface of the liver (n = 51, 66.2%), followed by the perihepatic ligaments (n = 19, 24.7%), the splenic fossa (n = 7, 9.1%), the diaphragm (n = 6, 7.8%), the retroperitonium (n = 6, 7.8%), the right adrenal gland (n = 3, 3.9%), and the gallbladder bed (n = 2, 2.6%). The most common form of bleeding was oozing. Early haemorrhage (at ≤ 24 h) was most likely to occur in the form of venous bleeding or oozing from the cut surface of the liver. Rates of 5-year overall and disease-free survival in the 77 patients were 22.1% and 3.9%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Re-exploration for haemorrhage following hepatectomy for PLC is a rare event. Haemorrhage occurs predominantly at the cut parenchymal surface. Early return to the operating room is vital and perioperative survival is common in this high-risk group.

Prediction of massive blood loss in scoliosis surgery from preoperative variables

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

To identify predictors of massive blood loss after scoliosis surgery.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Scoliosis surgery may be associated with considerable blood loss. Many blood conservation techniques have been used to reduce the allogeneic transfusion. An ability to identify patients with high risk of massive blood loss preoperatively may be helpful for appropriate use of these techniques.

METHODS

Data of patients undergoing scoliosis surgery between June 1, 2011, and October 31, 2011, were collected. Preoperative information and total blood loss, which was calculated as the sum of intraoperative and postoperative estimated blood loss, were recorded. Patients were divided into 2 groups, retrospectively: group A (n = 95) with the total blood loss more than 30% of estimated blood volume and group B (n = 64) with the total blood loss of 30% of estimated blood volume or less. Preoperative data were compared between the groups. Significant variables were selected for a forward stepwise binary logistic regression analysis to determine the independent risk factors of massive blood loss.

RESULTS

More than half of the patients (59.7%) undergoing scoliosis surgery had massive blood loss. Patients in group A were shorter (P = 0.01) and had larger preoperative Cobb angle (P < 0.01), more levels fused (P < 0.01), and more osteotomies (P < 0.01) than those in group B. Preoperative Cobb angle more than 50º (P = 0.017, odds ratio = 2.47, 95% confidence interval: 1.17-5.20), the number of fused levels more than 6 (P = 0.014, odds ratio = 3.70, 95% confidence interval: 1.31-10.49), and osteotomy (P = 0.000, odds ratio = 4.64, 95% confidence interval: 1.97-10.94) were determined to be the independent risk factors of massive blood loss in scoliosis surgery.

CONCLUSION

Risk of massive blood loss (total blood loss > 30% of estimated blood volume) in patients with scoliosis could increase, if they (1) had preoperative Cobb angle larger than 50º or (2) planned to undergo osteotomy or fusion of more than 6 levels.

Randomized clinical trial comparing infrahepatic inferior vena cava clamping with low central venous pressure in complex liver resections involving the Pringle manoeuvre

BACKGROUND

Control of bleeding remains key to successful hepatic resection. The present randomized clinical trial compared infrahepatic inferior vena cava (IVC) clamping with low central venous pressure (CVP) during complex hepatectomy using portal triad clamping (PTC).

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing complex hepatectomy were allocated randomly to PTC combined with infrahepatic IVC clamping or to PTC with low CVP. Primary outcome was blood loss during parenchymal transection. Secondary outcomes were intraoperative surgical and haemodynamic parameters, postoperative recovery of liver and renal function, postoperative morbidity and mortality, and duration of hospital stay.

RESULTS

Between January 2008 and September 2010, 192 patients were randomized. Compared with low CVP, infrahepatic IVC clamping significantly decreased blood loss during parenchymal transection (mean(s.e.m.) 243(158) versus 372(197) ml; P < 0·001), was associated with faster recovery of liver function, and caused less impairment in renal function and fewer haemodynamic changes. The degree of cirrhosis correlated positively with CVP (R(2) = 0·963, P = 0·019) and with infrahepatic IVC pressure (R(2) = 0·950, P = 0·025). For patients with moderate or severe cirrhosis, infrahepatic IVC clamping was more efficacious in controlling blood loss during parenchymal transection (mean(s.e.m.) 2·9(1·8) versus 6·1(2·4) ml/cm(2); P < 0·001).

CONCLUSION

PTC combined with infrahepatic IVC clamping is more efficacious in controlling bleeding during complex hepatectomy than PTC with low CVP, especially in patients with moderate to severe cirrhosis.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT01355887 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Advantage of autologous blood transfusion in surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma

AIM: To evaluate the significance of autologous blood transfusion (AT) in reducing homologous blood transfusion (HT) in surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS: The proportion of patients who received HT was compared between two groups determined by the time of AT introduction; period A (1991-1994, n = 93) and period B (1995-2000, n = 201). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed in order to identify independent significant predictors of the need for HT. We also investigated the impact of AT and HT on long-term postoperative outcome after curative surgery for HCC.

RESULTS: The proportion of patients with HT was significantly lower in period B than period A (18.9% vs 60.2%, P < 0.0001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified AT administration as a significant independent predictor of the need for HT (P < 0.0001). Disease-free survival in patients with AT was comparable to that without any transfusion. Multivariate analysis identified HT administration as an independent significant factor for poorer disease-free survival (P = 0.0380).

CONCLUSION: AT administration significantly decreased the need for HT. Considering the postoperative survival disadvantage of HT, AT administration could improve the long-term outcome of HCC patients.

Hepatic blood inflow occlusion without hemihepatic artery control in treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma

AIM: To investigate the clinical significance of hepatic blood inflow occlusion without hemihepatic artery control (BIOwHAC) in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS: Fifty-nine patients with HCC were divided into 3 groups based on the technique used for achieving hepatic vascular occlusion: group 1, vascular occlusion was achieved by the Pringle maneuver (n = 20); group 2, by hemihepatic vascular occlusion (HVO) (n = 20); and group 3, by BIOwHAC (n = 19). We compared the procedures among the three groups in term of operation time, intraoperative bleeding, postoperative liver function, postoperative complications, and length of hospital stay.

RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences (P > 0.05) in age, sex, pathological diagnosis, preoperative Child’s disease grade, hepatic function, and tumor size among the three groups. No intraoperative complications or deaths occurrred, and there were no significant intergroup differences (P > 0.05) in intraoperative bleeding, hepatic function change 3 and 7 d after operation, the incidence of complications, and length of hospital stay. BIOwHAC and Pringle maneuver required a significantly shorter operation time than HVO; the difference in the serum alanine aminotransferase or aspartate aminotransferase levels before and 1 d after operation was more significant in the BIOwHAC and HVO groups than in the Pringle maneuver group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: BIOwHAC is convenient and safe; this technique causes slight hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury similar to HVO.

An Electrode Array for Limiting Blood Loss During Liver Resection: Optimization via Mathematical Modeling

Liver resection is the current standard treatment for patients with both primary and metastatic liver cancer. The principal causes of morbidity and mortality after liver resection are related to blood loss (typically between 0.5 and 1 L), especially in cases where transfusion is required. Blood transfusions have been correlated with decreased long-term survival, increased risk of perioperative mortality and complications. The goal of this study was to evaluate different designs of a radiofrequency (RF) electrode array for use during liver resection. The purpose of this electrode array is to coagulate a slice of tissue including large vessels before resecting along that plane, thereby significantly reducing blood loss. Finite Element Method models were created to evaluate monopolar and bipolar power application, needle and blade shaped electrodes, as well as different electrode distances. Electric current density, temperature distribution, and coagulation zone sizes were measured. The best performance was achieved with a design of blade shaped electrodes (5 x 0.1 mm cross section) spaced 1.5 cm apart. The electrodes have power applied in bipolar mode to two adjacent electrodes, then switched sequentially in short intervals between electrode pairs to rapidly heat the tissue slice. This device produces a ~1.5 cm wide coagulation zone, with temperatures over 97 masculineC throughout the tissue slice within 3 min, and may facilitate coagulation of large vessels.

Two-surgeon technique of parenchymal transection contributes to reduced transfusion rate in patients undergoing major hepatectomy: analysis of 1,557 consecutive liver resections

BACKGROUND

Blood transfusions are an independent risk factor for adverse outcomes after hepatectomy. In-hospital transfusions are still reported in one third of patients in major series. Data on factors affecting blood transfusions in large series of liver resection are limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate factors predictive of blood transfusion in hepatectomies performed at a tertiary referral center.

METHODS

Records of 1,477 patients who underwent 1,557 liver resections between 1998 and 2007 were reviewed. Multivariate analysis of risk factors for red cell transfusion was performed.

RESULTS

Median intra-operative blood loss was 250 cc, and 30-day peri-operative red cell transfusion rate was 27%. On multivariate analysis, factors that significantly predicted increased red cell transfusion rates were female sex, pre-operative hematocrit<30%, platelet count<100,000/mm3, simultaneous resection of other organs, major hepatic resection, use of the Pringle maneuver, and tumors>10 cm. Parenchymal transection technique was an independent risk factor for perioperative red cell transfusion; the usage of the 2-surgeon technique (combined saline-linked cautery and ultrasonic dissection) was associated with a lower transfusion rate than other techniques, including ultrasonic dissection alone, finger fracture, and stapling (P<.001).

CONCLUSION

Although most factors that affect the red cell transfusion rate for liver resection are patient- or tumor-related, the parenchymal transection technique is under the surgeon's control. The decrease in transfusion rate associated with the use of the 2-surgeon technique emphasizes the important role of the hepatobiliary surgeon in determining outcomes after liver resection.

Second and third hepatectomies for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma are justified

BACKGROUND

Liver resection is the main curative treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but recurrence rates are high. The remnant liver is the most common site of recurrence, but the role of repeat hepatectomy in the treatment of recurrent HCC is controversial.

METHODS

Patients who underwent curative hepatectomy for HCC and subsequent repeat hepatectomy for recurrent HCC between 1990 and 2007 were reviewed retrospectively. Clinicopathological characteristics, and early- and long-term outcomes of patients who had a first, second, third and fourth hepatectomy were compared.

RESULTS

Some 1177 patients underwent a first hepatectomy for HCC, and 149, 35 and eight patients respectively had a second, third and fourth hepatectomies for recurrence. There were no significant differences in early postoperative outcomes after first and repeat hepatectomies. Five-year disease-free and overall survival rates after first, second and third hepatectomies were 43.6, 31.8 and 33.8 per cent (P = 0.772), and 52.4, 56.4 and 59.4 per cent (P = 0.879), respectively. Patients undergoing second and third hepatectomies for recurrence had better survival rates than those who did not have a repeat hepatectomy, but not those after fourth hepatectomy.

CONCLUSION

Second and third hepatectomies seem justified for hepatic recurrence of HCC. The role of fourth hepatectomy needs further investigation.

Predeposit autologous plasma donation in liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma: toward allogenic blood-free operations

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety of predeposit autologous plasma donation (PAPD) and its efficacy in avoiding allogenic blood transfusions and albumin infusion in liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma.

STUDY DESIGN

PAPD was adopted in 20 patients in whom liver function remained within Child-Pugh's class A and an indocyanine green retention rate at 15 minutes was < or = 15% (PAPD group). Up to 1,200 mL of autologous fresh frozen plasma was collected through three blood donation sessions. Allogenic blood transfusion rates, albumin infusion rates, and postoperative courses were compared between the PAPD group and a historic control (no PAPD) group (n = 36).

RESULTS

Serum albumin levels after the last blood donation session were not significantly different from those before PAPD. The prothrombin activity even increased through the blood donation sessions (from median 80.9% [range 70.0% to 100%] to median 89.2% [range 71.2% to 100%]; p < 0.001). Allogenic blood transfusion rate and albumin infusion rate were lower in the PAPD group than in the no PAPD group (11% versus 75%; p < 0.001 and 16% versus 47%; p = 0.038, respectively). Wastage rate of the autologous fresh frozen plasma products was 9%.

CONCLUSIONS

PAPD was safe in patients with underlying liver disease and can be beneficial in simulating the liver synthetic function in advance of operation. Autologous fresh frozen plasma transfusion was effective for avoiding allogenic blood products in liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients who have undergone prior renal transplantation

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Because renal transplantation recipients require immunosuppressive drugs, they have a higher incidence of subsequent malignancies. Among them, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is common. Although liver resection remains an option for curing HCC, the role of liver resection in renal transplantation recipients remains unclear.

METHODS

A retrospective review of liver resection for newly diagnosed HCC in 680 patients was conducted. Among them, 18 patients had undergone prior renal transplantation (RT group). The patient background, tumor characteristics, early and long-term results after liver resection were compared with the other 662 patients who had not previously undergone renal transplantation (non-RT group).

RESULTS

The patient's background characteristics were comparable between RT and non-RT group. The tumor characteristics, postoperative morbidity, and mortality were not significantly different between the two groups. The 5-year disease-free survival rates in RT and non-RT groups were 18.8% and 41.2%, respectively (P = 0.242), whereas 5-year actuarial survival rates in RT and non-RT groups were 59.1% and 58.3%, respectively (P = 0.738). Two patients lost their graft kidney 3 and 8 years after liver resection.

CONCLUSION

With careful protection of the graft kidney, liver resection is still a justified treatment option for HCC in patients who have undergone renal transplantation.

Perioperative parenteral tranexamic acid in liver tumor resection: a prospective randomized trial toward a "blood transfusion"-free hepatectomy

OBJECTIVE

To examine the feasibility of a real "blood transfusion"-free hepatectomy in a large group of patients with liver tumors.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Bleeding control and blood transfusion remains problematic in liver resection. A real "blood transfusion"-free hepatectomy in a large group of patients has rarely been reported. The impact of tranexamic acid (TA), an antifibrinolytic agent, on blood transfusion in liver resection is unknown.

METHODS

A prospective double-blind randomized trial was performed on elective liver tumor resections. In group A, TA 500 mg was intravenously administered just before operation followed by 250 mg, every 6 hours, for 3 days. In group B, only placebo was given. The patients' background, blood transfusion rates, and early postoperative results in the 2 groups were compared. Factors that influenced blood requirement were analyzed.

RESULTS

There were 108 hepatectomies in group A and 106 hepatectomies in group B. The patients' backgrounds, operative procedures, and hepatectomy extent did not significantly differ between the 2 groups. Although the differences of the operative morbidity and postoperative stay were not significant, a significantly lower amount of operative blood loss, lower blood transfusion rate, shorter operative time, and lower hospital costs were found in group A patients. No patient in group A received blood transfusion. No hospital mortality occurred in either group. Tumor size and use of TA were independent factors that influenced blood transfusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Perioperative parenteral use of TA reduced the amount of operative blood loss and the need for blood transfusion in elective liver tumor resection. A real "blood transfusion"-free hepatectomy may be feasible with the assistance of parenteral TA.

Vascular control during hepatectomy: review of methods and results

The various techniques of hepatic vascular control are presented, focusing on the indications and drawbacks of each. Retrospective and prospective clinical studies highlight aspects of the pathophysiology, indications, and morbidity of the various techniques of hepatic vascular control. Newer perspectives on the field emerge from the introduction of ischemic preconditioning and laparoscopic hepatectomy. A literature review based on computer searches in Index Medicus and PubMed focuses mainly on prospective studies comparing techniques and large retrospective ones. All methods of hepatic vascular control can be applied with minimal mortality by experienced surgeons and are effective for controlling bleeding. The Pringle maneuver is the oldest and simplest of these methods and is still favored by many surgeons. Intermittent application of the Pringle maneuver and hemihepatic occlusion or inflow occlusion with extraparenchymal control of major hepatic veins is particularly indicated for patients with abnormal parenchyma. Total hepatic vascular exclusion is associated with considerable morbidity and hemodynamic intolerance in 10% to 20% of patients. It is absolutely indicated only when extensive reconstruction of the inferior vena cava (IVC) is warranted. Major hepatic veins/ and limited IVC reconstruction has been also achieved under inflow occlusion with extraparenchymal control of major hepatic veins or even using the intermittent Pringle maneuver. Ischemic preconditioning is strongly recommended for patients younger than 60 years and those with steatotic livers. Each hepatic vascular control technique has its place in liver surgery, depending on tumor location, underlying liver disease, patient cardiovascular status, and, most important, the experience of the surgical and anesthesia team.

Vascular occlusion to decrease blood loss during hepatic resection

BACKGROUND

Historically, the primary hazard with liver surgery has been intraoperative blood loss. This led to the refinement of inflow and outflow occlusive techniques. The utility of the different methods of inflow and outflow techniques for hepatic surgery were reviewed.

METHODS

A search of the English literature (Medline, Embase, Cochrane library, Cochrane clinical trials registry, hand searches, and bibliographic reviews) using the terms "liver," "hepatic," "Pringle," "total vascular exclusion," "ischemia," "reperfusion," "inflow," and "outflow occlusion" was performed.

RESULTS

A multitude of techniques to minimize blood loss during hepatic resection have been studied. The evidence suggests that inflow occlusion techniques are generally well tolerated. These should be used with caution in patients with cirrhosis, fibrosis, steatosis, cholestasis, and recent chemotherapy, and for prolonged time intervals.

CONCLUSIONS

Harmful effects of intraoperative blood loss and transfusion occur during hepatic resection. Portal triad clamping (PTC) is associated with less blood loss compared with no clamping. In procedures with ischemic times <1 hour in length, PTC-C (continuous) is likely equal to PTC-I (intermittent). In patients with chronic liver disease or undergoing lengthy operations, PTC-I is likely superior to PTC-C. PTC is superior to total vascular exclusion except in patients with tumors that are large and deep seated, hypervascular, and/or abutting the hepatic veins or vena cava and in patients with increased right-sided heart pressures.

Liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis

BACKGROUND

Although liver resection is now a safe procedure, its role for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with cirrhosis remains controversial.

METHODS

This study compared the results of liver resection for HCC in patients with cirrhosis over two time intervals. One hundred and sixty-one patients had resection during period 1 (1991-1996) and 265 in period 2 (1997-2002). Early and long-term results after liver resection in the two periods were compared, and clinicopathological characteristics that influenced survival were identified.

RESULTS

Tumour size was smaller, indocyanine green retention rate was higher, patients were older and a greater proportion of patients were asymptomatic in period 2 than period 1. Operative blood loss, need for blood transfusion, operative mortality rate, postoperative hospital stay and total hospital costs were significantly reduced in period 2. The 5-year disease-free survival rates were 28.2 and 33.9 per cent in periods 1 and 2 respectively (P = 0.042), and 5-year overall survival rates were 45.9 and 61.2 per cent (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified serum alpha-fetoprotein level, need for blood transfusion and Union Internacional Contra la Cancrum tumour node metastasis stage as independent determinants of disease-free and overall survival.

CONCLUSION

The results of liver resection for HCC in patients with cirrhosis improved over time. Liver resection remains a good treatment option in selected patients with HCC arising from a cirrhotic liver.

Appraisal of concomitant splenectomy in liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients with hypersplenic thrombocytopenia

BACKGROUND

Liver resection usually is not recommended for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension. The role of concomitant splenectomy in liver resection for HCC in cirrhotic patients with hypersplenic thrombocytopenia (HT) resulting from portal hypertension remains undefined.

METHODS

Among 526 cirrhotic patients who underwent liver resection for HCC, 41 underwent a concomitant splenectomy (Sp group) because of HT (platelet count </=80 x 10(3)/mm(3)). The patients' backgrounds, pathologic characteristics of HCC, and short- and long-term results after liver resection of Sp group were compared with those of the other 485 cirrhotic patients who did not undergo splenectomy (non-Sp group).

RESULTS

Compared to the non-Sp group, the liver function was worse, the tumor size was smaller, the liver resection extent was narrower, and tumor stages were earlier in the Sp group. The postoperative morbidity, mortality, hospital stay, and hospital costs were not significantly different between the groups. The disease-free survival rate of the Sp group was better than that of non-Sp group, but the actuarial survival rates of both groups were similar. After stratification with UICC-TNM stages, there were no significant differences regarding the disease-free and actuarial survival rates in each stage.

CONCLUSIONS

Concomitant splenectomy extends the indication of liver resection for HCC in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension. It is justified in selected cirrhotic patients with HCC and HT.

Bacterial translocation after cirrhotic liver resection: a clinical investigation of 181 patients

BACKGROUND

Cirrhotic patients are usually associated with a high susceptibility to infection. Although bacterial translocation from gut mucosa to mesenteric lymph node (MLN) and systemic circulation is a well-known phenomenon after hepatectomy, its role in cirrhotic patients remains unclear.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MLN was harvested for bacterial culture before and after liver resection in 181 cirrhotic patients. The characteristics and postoperative courses of patients with positive and negative bacterial culture for MLN after hepatectomy were compared. Postoperative systemic antibiotics were administered if infectious complications occurred.

RESULTS

No bacteria were cultured in MLN before hepatectomy. Bacterial translocation (BT) to MLN after hepatectomy occurred in 36 patients (BT group). After multivariate analysis, intraoperative blood transfusion was the only independent factor that influenced bacterial translocation rates after cirrhotic liver resection. BT group patients also had higher infectious and overall complication rates, with a longer postoperative hospital stay. Among the cultured bacteriae from infected sites in BT group patients with infectious complications, only 2 patients (12.5%) had totally different bacterial species to those cultured from MLNs.

CONCLUSIONS

Bacterial translocation more often occurred after liver resection in cirrhotic patients who received intraoperative blood transfusion. Such patients had higher postoperative infectious and overall complication rates. Thus, avoidance of intraoperative blood transfusion is mandatory for cirrhotic liver resection.

Autologous blood storage before hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma with underlying liver disease

BACKGROUND

Preoperative autologous blood donation has been suggested for patients with liver disease who are to undergo liver resection. The aim of this retrospective study was to clarify the risk factors for increased blood loss and the need for blood transfusion during hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS

From January 1996 to December 2000, 206 consecutive patients, 98.5 per cent of whom had underlying liver disease, underwent elective hepatectomy for HCC.

RESULTS

Major hepatectomy was performed in 34 patients (16.5 per cent) and minor hepatectomy in 172 patients (83.5 per cent). The mean blood loss was 410 (median 260) ml. Eleven (5.3 per cent) of the 206 patients received blood transfusion during or after the operation. Operation time (P = 0.004) and central venous pressure (CVP) (P = 0.041) were independently correlated with blood loss of more than 1000 ml. Only preoperative haemoglobin level (P = 0.001) was independently correlated with the need for blood transfusion.

CONCLUSION

In patients with underlying liver disease, maintaining CVP at a level below 5 cm H2O during parenchymal transection to reduce blood loss is more important than reserving autologous blood before the operation.

Liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with end-stage renal failure

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Surgical resection remains the main option for curing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, liver resection in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is risky. The aim of this study is to clarify the role of liver resection for treating HCC in patients with ESRD.

METHODS

A retrospective review was carried out on 468 patients who underwent liver resection for HCC between 1989 and 1999. The clinicopathological characteristics and operative results of 12 patients who had ESRD (ESRD group) were compared with those of the other 456 patients who did not have ESRD (non-ESRD group). In the ESRD group, heparin-free hemodialysis using the periodic saline-rinse method was performed during the perioperative period.

RESULTS

The ESRD group had lower hemoglobin and a higher serum creatinine levels. Other patient background and tumor pathological characteristics were comparable between the two groups as well. The operative morbidity and mortality between the two groups were also similar. The 5-year disease-free survival rates for ESRD and non-ESRD groups were 35.0 and 34.2% (P = 0.31), respectively, while the 5-year actuarial survival rates were 67.8 and 53.3% (P = 0.54), respectively.

CONCLUSION

With improving techniques and knowledge of dialysis, liver resection for HCC is justified in selected patients with ESRD.

Role of platelet-activating factor in hepatectomy with Pringle's maneuver

BACKGROUND

Interruption of hepatic inflow is commonly used to reduce blood loss during extensive liver resection, but may cause liver dysfunction. The present study investigated the effects of platelet-activating factor (PAF) antagonist E5880 on total liver warm ischemia and 70% hepatectomy.

METHODS

Rabbits were used in this study and were divided into four groups: group 1, those treated with only 70% hepatectomy; group 2, those treated with only 20 min Pringle's maneuver; group 3, those treated with both Pringle's maneuver and 70% hepatectomy without pretreatment; and group 4, those pretreated with PAF antagonist E5880 (0.3 mg/kg) followed by Pringle's maneuver and 70% hepatectomy. The remnant liver function was then evaluated after reperfusion.

RESULTS

Seven-day survival rates in both groups 1 and 2 were 100%. E5880 treatment significantly increased 7-day survival rate (group 4: 38% vs group 3: 0%, P < 0.05) after a combination of Pringle's maneuver and 70% hepatectomy. The elevations of serum liver enzymes (GOT, GPT, mGOT, and LDH) were significantly inhibited in group 4 at 1 and 4 h after reperfusion. Portal venous pressure and the energy charge of liver were also significantly improved in group 4, compared with those in group 3. Endothelin-1 levels of arterial and portal venous blood progressively increased after reperfusion; however, there were no significant differences between the two groups. Leukocyte infiltration into the liver was significantly inhibited in group 4.

CONCLUSION

E5880 pretreatment has protective effects on liver function after 70% hepatectomy with Pringle's maneuver in rabbits.

Improving operative safety for cirrhotic liver resection

BACKGROUND

Liver resection in a patient with cirrhosis carries increased risk. The purposes of this study were to review the results of cirrhotic liver resection in the past decade and to propose safe strategies for cirrhotic liver resection.

METHODS

Based on the date of operation, 359 cirrhotic liver resections in 329 patients were divided into two intervals: period 1, from September 1989 to December 1994, and period 2, from January 1995 to December 1999. The patient backgrounds, operative procedures and early postoperative results were compared between the two periods. The factors that influenced surgical morbidity were analysed.

RESULTS

In period 2, patient age was higher and the amounts of blood loss and blood transfused were lower. Although postoperative morbidity rates were similar, blood transfusion requirement, postoperative hospital stay and mortality rate were significantly reduced in period 2. No death occurred in 154 consecutive cirrhotic liver resections in the last 38 months of the study. Prothrombin activity and operative time were independent factors that influenced postoperative morbidity.

CONCLUSION

With improving perioperative assessment and operative techniques, most complications after cirrhotic liver resection can be treated with a low mortality rate. However, more care should be taken if prothrombin activity is low or there is a long operating time.