Early experience with laparoscopic approach for solid liver tumors: initial 16 cases

Magnetic-assisted laparoscopic liver transplantation in swine

BACKGROUND

Although laparoscopic technology has achieved rapid development in the surgical field, it has not been applied to liver transplantation, primarily because of difficulties associated with laparoscopic vascular anastomosis. In this study, we introduced a new magnetic-assisted vascular anastomosis technique and explored its application in laparoscopic liver transplantation in pigs.

METHODS

Two sets of magnetic vascular anastomosis rings (MVARs) with different diameters were developed. One set was used for anastomosis of the suprahepatic vena cava (SHVC) and the other set was used for anastomosis of the infrahepatic vena cava (IHVC) and portal vein (PV). Six laparoscopic orthotopic liver transplantations were performed in pigs. Donor liver was obtained via open surgery. Hepatectomy was performed in the recipients through laparoscopic surgery. Anastomosis of the SHVC was performed using hand-assisted magnetic anastomosis, and the anastomosis of the IHVC and PV was performed by magnetic anastomosis with or without hand assistance.

RESULTS

Liver transplants were successfully performed in five of the six cases. Postoperative ultrasonographic examination showed that the portal inflow was smooth. However, PV bending and blood flow obstruction occurred in one case because the MVARs were attached to each other. The durations of loading of MVAR in the laparoscope group and manual assistance group for IHVC and PV were 13 ± 5 vs. 5 ± 1 min (P < 0.01) and 10 ± 2 vs. 4 ± 1 min (P < 0.05), respectively. The durations of MVAR anastomosis in the laparoscope group and manual assistance group for IHVC and PV were 5 ± 1 vs. 1 ± 1 min (P < 0.01), and 5 ± 1 vs. 1 ± 1 min (P < 0.01), respectively. The anhepatic phase was 43 ± 4 min in the laparoscope group and 23 ± 2 min in the manual assistance group (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that magnetic-assisted laparoscopic liver transplantation can be successfully carried out in pigs.

Giant hepatic hemangioma case report: When is it time for surgery?

We describe a case of a 30-year-old man who complained intermitted pain in right abdominal flank; a large cavernoumatos hemangioma – up to 6 cm in size – was revealed in the fifth hepatic segment using Ultrasonography and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging).

Indications for treatment – based on imaging features and clinical data – are briefly discussed in our report, providing also a review of existing literature.

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Giant hemangiomas can become an invalidant condition.

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Magnetic Resonance Imaging is the most sensitive radiological technique.

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Giant hemangiomas are suscettibile of a laparoscopic approach

How to safely perform laparoscopic liver resection for children: A case series of 19 patients

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility and outcome of laparoscopic hepatectomy in pediatric patients with liver tumors and introduce surgical techniques to minimize complications.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 19 patients less than the age of 18 years old who underwent LLR for liver tumors between November 2005 and May 2017.

RESULTS

Ten females and nine males with a median age of 26 months and a median body weight of 14.7 kg were enrolled. Diseases of these patients were hepatoblastoma, neuroblastoma, biliary atresia, and liver abscess. The numbers of resected hepatic segments were more than two in thirteen patients and one in six patients. One patient required conversion to laparotomy to control bleeding caused by injury to the left hepatic vein. Nine patients received transfusions perioperatively. Median duration of operation was 230 min, and median postoperative hospital stay was 7.0 days. There was no postoperative complication. Only one patient showed nonhepatic recurrence of neuroblastoma which caused mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

LLR for benign and malignant liver tumors showed acceptable amount of bleeding and low complication rate. Therefore, LLR would be a safe and feasible option for liver tumors in children with proper technical efforts and selection of patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Comparison study between open and laparoscopic liver resection in a Saudi tertiary center

Objectives:

To compare King Saud University Medical City experience in laparoscopic liver resection with our previously established database for open resections.

Methods:

A retrospective study was conducted at King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. All adult patients who underwent liver resection from 2006 to 2017 were included. Patients who had their procedure converted to open were excluded.

Results:

Among the 111 liver resections included, 22 (19.8%) were performed laparoscopically and 89 (80.1%) were performed using the open technique. Malignancy was the most common indication in both groups (78.5%). The mean operative time was 275 min (SD 92.2) in the laparoscopic group versus 315 min (SD 104.3) in the open group. Intraoperative blood transfusion was required in the laparoscopic (9%) and open groups (31.4%). The morbidity rate was 13.6% in the laparoscopic group and 31.4% in the open group, and the mortality rate was 0% in the laparoscopic group and 5.6% in the open group.

Conclusion:

Laparoscopic liver resection appears to be a safe technique and can be performed in various benign and malignant cases.

Resection for hepatocellular cancer: overpassing old barriers

Several recent studies have shown that the selection limits commonly used for patients with hepatocellular cancer (HCC) potentially requiring a liver resection (LR) are too restrictive. The present review aims at investigating the studies showing that LR is no longer a treatment suitable only for highly selected patients, but also for patients selectively presenting one-to-more negative factors. Several specific variables have been investigated, none of them showing to be an absolute contraindication for LR: age; single vs. multiple diseases; the dimension of the nodule; hyperbilirubinemia; clinically relevant portal hypertension; Child-Pugh status; macrovascular invasion. As a consequence, LR for the treatment of HCC-on-cirrhosis is a safe and effective procedure not only in "ideal cases", but also for selected patients presenting risk factors. The presence of only one of these factors does not represent an absolute contraindication for LR. On the opposite, the contemporaneous presence of risk factors should contraindicate the procedure. Further studies investigating the "borderline" cases are required, mainly looking at the possible decisive role of laparoscopy in this setting.

Early Experience in Starting a Laparoscopic Liver Resection Program in Greece

Background and Objectives:

Laparoscopic liver resections (LLRs) have gained wider acceptance during the decade as safe and efficient procedures in the management of several benign and malignant diseases when performed by experienced surgeons. We report our initial institutional experience with LLRs performed by 1 certified hepatobiliary surgeon.

Methods:

Patients undergoing LLRs by 1 senior hepatobiliary surgeon in our Institution during the period from January 2012 through January 2017 were prospectively sampled and retrospectively analyzed for the purposes of this study.

Results:

Forty-two of 175 patients (24%) who had surgery for liver tumors underwent LLR. Median age was 64 years; median body mass index and Charlson comorbidity index were 27.3 kg/m² and 6.5, respectively. Patients underwent resections for benign (n = 22) or malignant (n = 20) lesions. Median total operating time was 115 minutes and liver resections included: 1 left hepatectomy, 11 bisegmentectomies, 7 segmentectomies, 5 wide wedge resections, 1 left lateral sectionectomy combined with segmentectomy and radiofrequency ablation, 15 liver cyst unroofing, 1 laparoscopic drainage of a pyogenic liver abscess, and 1 laparoscopic drainage of a hepatic hydatid cyst. Blood transfusion was needed in 10 patients. Six patients (14%) had postoperative complications, none of which necessitated reoperation. None of the patients was admitted to the intensive care unit after surgery, and the median hospital stay was 4 days. The tumor-free resection margin was documented in all primary or secondary oncologic cases.

Conclusions:

Careful patient selection and compliance with the international recommendations are the keys for the successful introduction and evolution of an LLR program with a certified hepatobiliary surgeon with laparoscopic experience.

Predictors and implications of unplanned conversion during minimally invasive hepatectomy: an analysis of the ACS-NSQIP database

BACKGROUND

Minimally-invasive hepatectomy (MIH) is increasingly utilized; however, predictors and outcomes for patients requiring conversion to an open procedure have not been adequately studied.

METHODS

The 2014-15 ACS-NSQIP database was analyzed. Unplanned conversion was compared to successful MIH and elective open hepatectomy.

RESULTS

Among 6918 hepatectomies, 1062 (15.4%) underwent attempted MIH: 989 laparoscopic, 73 robotic. Conversion occurred in 203 (19.1%). Compared to successful MIH, patients requiring unplanned conversion experienced higher rates of complications (34.5% vs 14.6%, p<0.001), including bile leaks (7.4% vs 2.8%, p=0.002), organ space infection (6.4% vs 2.9%, p=0.016), UTI (4.9% vs 1.2%, p=0.002), perioperative bleeding (21.2% vs 6.1%, p<0.001), DVT (3.0% vs 0.8%, p=0.024), and sepsis (5.9% vs 1.9%, p=0.001). Conversion led to greater LOS (5 days vs 3 days, p<0.001) and 30-day mortality (3.0% vs 0.5%, p=0.005). Compared to elective open hepatectomy, conversion was associated with greater perioperative bleeding (21.2% vs 15.3%, p = 0.037). On multivariate analysis, major hepatectomy (OR 2.21, p<0.001), concurrent ablation (OR 1.79, p=0.020), and laparoscopic approach (vs. robotic) (OR 3.22, p=0.014) were associated with conversion.

CONCLUSION

Analysis of this national database revealed unplanned conversion during MIH is associated with greater morbidity and mortality. MIH should be approached cautiously in patients requiring major hepatectomy.

Evolution of Laparoscopic Liver Surgery from Innovation to Implementation to Mastery: Perioperative and Oncologic Outcomes of 2,238 Patients from 4 European Specialized Centers

BACKGROUND

First seen as an innovation for select patients, laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) has evolved since its introduction, resulting in worldwide use. Despite this, it is still limited mainly to referral centers. The aim of this study was to evaluate a large cohort undergoing LLR from 2000 to 2015, focusing on the technical approaches, perioperative and oncologic outcomes, and evolution of practice over time.

STUDY DESIGN

The demographics and indications, intraoperative, perioperative, and oncologic outcomes of 2,238 patients were evaluated. Trends in practice and outcomes over time were assessed.

RESULTS

The percentage of LLR performed yearly has increased from 5% in 2000 to 43% in 2015. Pure laparoscopy was used in 98.3% of cases. Wedge resections were the most common operation; they were predominant at the beginning of LLR and then decreased and remained steady at approximately 53%. Major hepatectomies were initially uncommon, then increased and reached a stable level at approximately 16%. Overall, 410 patients underwent resection in the posterosuperior segments; these were more frequent with time, and the highest percentage was in 2015 (26%). Blood loss, operative time, and conversion rate improved significantly with time. The 5-year overall survival rates were 73% and 54% for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and colorectal liver metastases (CRLM), respectively. The 5-year, recurrence-free survival rates were 50% and 37% for HCC and CRLM, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Since laparoscopy was introduced, a long implementation process has been necessary to allow for standardization and improvement in surgical care, mastery of the technique, and the ability to obtain good perioperative results with safe oncologic outcomes.

Short-term and middle-term evaluation of laparoscopic hepatectomies compared with open hepatectomies: A propensity score matching analysis

AIM

To compare short-term results between laparoscopic hepatectomy and open hepatectomy using a propensity score matching.

METHODS

A patient in the laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) group was randomly matched with another patient in the open liver resection (OLR) group using a 1:1 allocated ratio with the nearest estimated propensity score. Patients of the LLR group without matches were excluded. Matching criteria included age, gender, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, potential co-morbidities, hepatopathies, size and number of nodules, preoperative chemotherapy, minor or major liver resections. Intraoperative and postoperative data were compared in both groups.

RESULTS

From January 2012 to January 2015, a total of 241 hepatectomies were consecutively performed, of which 169 in the OLR group (70.1%) and 72 in the LLR group (29.9%). The conversion rate was 9.7% (n = 7). The mortality rate was 4.2% in the OLR group and 0% in the LLR group. Prior to and after propensity score matching, there was a statistically significant difference favorable to the LLR group regarding shorter operative times (185 min vs 247.5 min; P = 0.002), less blood loss (100 mL vs 300 mL; P = 0.002), a shorter hospital stay (7 d vs 9 d; P = 0.004), and a significantly lower rate of medical complications (4.3% vs 26.4%; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic liver resections seem to yield better short-term and mid-term results as compared to open hepatectomies and could well be considered a privileged approach and become the gold standard in carefully selected patients.

A Left-Sided, Purely Laparoscopic Approach for Anatomic Caudate Hepatectomy: A Single-Center Experience

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic caudate hepatectomy, which is a challenging procedure, has been reported sporadically. However, there is no standardized surgical technique, and the safety and feasibility of this procedure remain controversial.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A left-sided, purely laparoscopic approach for anatomic caudate hepatectomy was used for 11 selected patients in our institution. The procedure and technique of laparoscopic caudate hepatectomy were described. Perioperative data of these patients were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

The 11 cases included two subgroups: laparoscopic isolated caudate hepatectomy (n = 4) and laparoscopic combined caudate and left hemihepatectomy (n = 7). There were three major steps for anatomic caudate hepatectomy. Two conversions were required (18.2%). Two complications (Clavien Grades I and II) occurred but no deaths.

CONCLUSIONS

The left-sided, purely laparoscopic approach for anatomic caudate hepatectomy is safe and feasible in selected patients. This procedure can be performed by hepatobiliary surgeons with abundant experience in laparoscopic liver surgery.

Pneumoperitoneum simulation based on mass-spring-damper models for laparoscopic surgical planning

Laparoscopic surgery, which is one minimally invasive surgical technique that is now widely performed, is done by making a working space (pneumoperitoneum) by infusing carbon dioxide ([Formula: see text]) gas into the abdominal cavity. A virtual pneumoperitoneum method that simulates the abdominal wall and viscera motion by the pneumoperitoneum based on mass-spring-damper models (MSDMs) with mechanical properties is proposed. Our proposed method simulates the pneumoperitoneum based on MSDMs and Newton's equations of motion. The parameters of MSDMs are determined by the anatomical knowledge of the mechanical properties of human tissues. Virtual [Formula: see text] gas pressure is applied to the boundary surface of the abdominal cavity. The abdominal shapes after creation of the pneumoperitoneum are computed by solving the equations of motion. The mean position errors of our proposed method using 10 mmHg virtual gas pressure were [Formula: see text], and the position error of the previous method proposed by Kitasaka et al. was 35.6 mm. The differences in the errors were statistically significant ([Formula: see text], Student's [Formula: see text]-test). The position error of the proposed method was reduced from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] using 30 mmHg virtual gas pressure. The proposed method simulated abdominal wall motion by infused gas pressure and generated deformed volumetric images from a preoperative volumetric image. Our method predicted abdominal wall deformation by just giving the [Formula: see text] gas pressure and the tissue properties. Measurement of the visceral displacement will be required to validate the visceral motion.

New technique of extracorporeal hepatic inflow control for pure laparoscopic liver resection

We have developed a new technique of the Pringle maneuver by clamping outside the abdominal wall for pure laparoscopic liver resection (pure Lap). Our technique successfully controls bleeding and enables pure Lap to be completed without any events, even for a large tumor. Between 2008 and 2010, we compared consecutive patients who received pure Lap with (n=11) and without (n=7) this Pringle maneuver. Although tumor size in the Pringle group was significantly larger than in the no-Pringle group (3.35±1.64 vs. 1.11±0.29 cm, respectively), intraoperative bleeding was not significantly different (165.5±188.5 vs. 177.9±364.4 mL, respectively). In contrast, operation time in the Pringle group was significantly longer than in the no-Pringle group (343.1±99.5 vs. 199.6±63.2 min, respectively). Pure Lap for large tumors is feasible when employing a new Pringle maneuver outside the abdominal wall.

The role of adult living donor liver transplantation and recent advances

Twenty years since the first cases were described, adult living donor liver transplantation (ALDLT) is now considered a valid option to expand the donor pool in view of the ongoing shortage of organs and the high waiting list mortality rate. Despite the rapid evolution and acceptance of this complex process of donation and transplantation in clinical practice, the indications, outcome, ethical considerations and quality and safety aspects continue to evolve based on new data from large cohort studies. This article reviews the surgical and clinical advances in the field of liver transplantation, focusing on technical refinements and discussing the issues that may lead to a further expansion of this complex surgical procedure and the role of ALDLT.

Short- and long-term outcomes after laparoscopic and open hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma: a global systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic hepatectomy (LH) has been proposed as a safe and feasible treatment option for liver diseases. However, the short- and long-term outcomes of LH versus open hepatectomy (OH) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have not been adequately assessed. Thus, as another means of surgical therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), we assessed the feasibility of performing LH as the standard procedure for disease in the left lateral lobe and peripheral right segments for HCC in selected patients.

METHODS

Literature search included PubMed, Embase, Science Citation Index, SpringerLink, and secondary sources, from inception to March 2012, with no restrictions on languages or regions. The fixed-effects and random-effects models were used to measure the pooled estimates. The test of heterogeneity was performed by the Q statistic. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed to explore heterogeneity between studies and to assess the effects of study quality.

RESULTS

A total of 1238 patients (LH 485, OH 753) from 15 studies were included. The pooled odds ratios for postoperative morbidity and incidence of negative surgical margin in LH were found to be 0.37 (95 % confidence interval [CI] 0.27-0.52; P < 0.01) and 1.63 (95 % CI 0.82-3.22; P = 0.16), respectively, compared with OH. Blood loss was significantly decreased in the LH (weighted mean difference -224.63; 95 % CI -384.87 to -64.39; P = 0.006). No significant difference was observed between the both groups for long-term outcomes of overall survival and recurrence-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with solitary left lateral lobe/right peripheral subcapsular tumors treated with minor resection, this meta-analysis demonstrated that compared to OH, LH may have short-term advantages in terms of blood loss and postoperative morbidity for HCC. Both procedures have similar long-term outcomes. It may be time to consider changing the standard procedures for treatment of HCC in the left lateral lobe and peripheral subcapsular right segments in selected patients.

Lessons learned from the first 100 laparoscopic liver resections: not delaying conversion may allow reduced blood loss and operative time

BACKGROUND

The laparoscopic approach to liver resective surgery is slowly spreading to specialized centers. Little is known about factors influencing the immediate postoperative outcome.

STUDY DESIGN

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the immediate outcome of laparoscopic liver resection (LLR), with particular emphasis on intraoperative bleeding and conversion. A retrospective analysis of demographic, clinical, and surgical data, including conversion, morbidity/mortality, and hospital stay, of the first 100 patients at our institution undergoing LLR from February 1997 through March 2007 was performed.

RESULTS

Indication for LLR was benign lesion in 28 patients, malignancy in 33, and living donation in 39. Seventy-five resections involved two or more segments. Mean blood loss was 120 ± 127.6 mL. One patient (1%) required transfusion. Mean operative time was 253 ± 91.6 minutes. No patient died. Postoperative complications occurred in 21 patients. The conversion rate was 17%. Variables related to conversion were American Society of Anesthesiologists Class II, body mass index, cirrhosis, necessity for the Pringle maneuver, and intraoperative blood loss. Conversion did not influence the operative time. Patients with conversion had more complications and a longer hospital stay.

CONCLUSIONS

Liver resection by laparoscopy is feasible and safe, implying low intraoperative blood loss. Not perfect physical conditions, cirrhosis, high body mass index, and, intraoperatively, blood loss and the necessity of a Pringle maneuver should be considered risk factors for conversion. A meticulous dissection by bipolar coagulation, Harmonic(®) (Ethicon) scalpel, and ultrasound dissector, other than the attitude not to delay conversion in difficult cases, may allow for low blood loss without prolongation of operative time, with a possible, slight increase of the conversion rate.

Laparoscopic versus open resection of colorectal liver metastasis

BACKGROUND

Findings have shown laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) to be feasible and safe, but the data in the literature regarding oncologic outcomes are scant. This study aimed to compare the perioperative and short-term oncologic outcomes between LLR and open resection of colorectal liver metastasis (CLM).

METHODS

Between January 2006 and April 2012, 40 patients underwent LLR of CLM. These patients were compared with a consecutive matched group of 40 patients who underwent open resection within the same period. Data were obtained from a prospective institutional review board (IRB)-approved database. Statistical analysis was performed using t test, Chi-square, and Kaplan-Meier survival.

RESULTS

The groups were similar in terms of age, gender, tumor size, number of tumors, and type of resections performed. The operative time was similar in the two groups, but the estimated blood loss was less in the LLR group than in the open resection group. The length of stay was shorter in the LLR group (3.7 vs 6.5 days; p < 0.001). The 2-year overall survival rate was 89 % for LLR and 81 % for open resection. The median disease-free survival time was 23 months in each group.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that LLR is associated with less blood loss and a shorter hospital stay than open resection for CLM. According to our short-term results, LLR is equivalent to open resection in terms of oncologic outcomes.

Laparoscopy in Liver Transplantation: The Future has Arrived

In the last two decades, laparoscopy has revolutionized the field of surgery. Many procedures previously performed with an open access are now routinely carried out with the laparoscopic approach. Several advantages are associated with laparoscopic surgery compared to open procedures: reduced pain due to smaller incisions and hemorrhaging, shorter hospital length of stay, and a lower incidence of wound infections. Liver transplantation (LT) brought a radical change in life expectancy of patients with hepatic end-stage disease. Today, LT represents the standard of care for more than fifty hepatic pathologies, with excellent results in terms of survival. Surely, with laparoscopy and LT being one of the most continuously evolving challenges in medicine, their recent combination has represented an astonishing scientific progress. The intent of the present paper is to underline the current role of diagnostic and therapeutic laparoscopy in patients waiting for LT, in the living donor LT and in LT recipients.

The introduction of a laparoscopic liver surgery programme: a cost analysis of initial experience in a university hospital

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

In the era of expanding costs of healthcare, this study was conducted to perform a cost analysis of introducing a laparoscopic liver surgery programme for left sided liver lesions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Consecutive patients treated by laparoscopic liver resections of left lateral segments were included. Controls were a group of 14 patients undergoing open resection for similar pathology. Primary outcomes were costs. Secondary outcomes were complications, conversions, blood loss, length of operation, and length of hospital stay.

RESULTS

The laparoscopic approach for hepatic left lateral resection (bisegmentectomy 2 and 3) was performed in fourteen patients (group I, median age 54 [range 26-82] years). In the open group, fourteen patients from a prospectively collected database with the same type of resection were selected (group II, median age 64 [range 29-76] years). Costs of theatre usage in the laparoscopic group were significantly lower (p=0.031). No significant differences in costs of disposable instruments, ward stay and total costs were observed between the two groups. There were three complications in the laparoscopic group compared with two complications in the open group. In the laparoscopic group there were 2 conversions (14%). Median blood loss was significantly lower in the laparoscopic group (50 mls [range 0-750], (p=0.001) versus the open group (500 mls [range 150-750]). Furthermore, operation time was also significantly lower in the laparoscopic group (116 [range 85-261] minutes) versus the open group (165 [range 96-217] minutes, p=0.016). Median length of stay was 6 [range 4-11] days in group I versus 6 [range 5-13] days in group II (p=0.508).

CONCLUSION

Costs of laparoscopic liver resections proved to be equivalent to open surgery. Furthermore, implementation of a laparoscopic liver resection programme seems feasible and safe with reduced blood loss and operation time and comparable morbidity and length of stay.

Single center experience of laparoscopic hepatectomy: the comparison of perioperative outcomes between early and late period

BACKGROUNDS/AIMS

The aim of this study is to clarify the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic hepatectomy, through comparing the early and late periods of perioperative outcomes.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 138 patients who underwent laparoscopic hepatectomy from January 2003 to June 2011, at Yeungnam University Hospital. We divided the total patients to early period (from January 2003 to February 2007, n=49) and late period (from March 2007 to June 2011, n=89) groups and compared the perioperative outcomes including the mean operation time, intra-operative blood loss, postoperative hospital stay, intensive care unit (ICU) stay, and duration of liver function test (LFT) normalization.

RESULTS

The mean operation time was 308 minutes (range: 140-510) in the early group and 193 minutes (range: 40-350) in the late period group (p<0.001). The mean intraoperative blood loss was 171 ml (range: 50-1,200) in the early and 44 ml (range: 0-400) in the late group (p=0.005). The postoperative hospital stay was 9.7 days (range: 4-31) in the early and 6.8 days (range: 2-9) in the late period (p<0.001). The ICU stay hour was 21.6 hours (range: 0-120) in the early and 2.8 hour (range: 0-24) in the late period (p<0.001). The duration of LFT normalization was 5.7 days (range: 0-39) in the early and 2.1 days (range: 0-20) in the late period (p=0.003). The perioperative outcomes in the late period were better than the early period, which showed a statistically significant difference.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic hepatectomy is feasible and can be safely performed in selected patients but requires a long experience in open liver resection and mastery of laparoscopic surgical skills.

Comparison of laparoscopic vs open liver lobectomy (segmentectomy) for hepatocellular carcinoma

AIM: To investigate the effects of laparoscopic hepatectomy for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS: From 2006 to January 2011, laparoscopic hepatectomies were performed on 30 cases of HCC at Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital. During this same time period, 30 patients elected to undergo conventional open hepatectomy over laparoscopic hepatectomy at the time of informed consent. The degree of invasiveness and outcomes of laparoscopic hepatectomy compared to open hepatectomy for HCC were evaluated.

RESULTS: Both groups presented with similar blood loss amounts, operating times and complications. Patients in the laparoscopic hepatectomy group started walking and eating significantly earlier than those in the open hepatectomy group, and these more rapid recoveries allowed for shorter hospitalizations. There were no significant differences between procedures in survival rate.

CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic hepatectomy is beneficial for patient quality of life if the indications are appropriately based on preoperative liver function and the location and size of the HCC.

Laparoscopic liver surgery: new frontiers

Laparoscopic liver resection (LHR) has shown classical advantages of minimally invasive surgery over open counterpart. In spite of introduction in early 1990's only few centres worldwide adapted LHR to routine practice. It was due to considerable technical challenges and uncertainty about oncologic outcomes. Surgical instrumentation and accumulation of surgical experience has largely enabled to solve many technical considerations. Intraoperative navigation options have also been improved. Consequently indications have been drastically expanded nearly reaching criteria equal to open liver resection in expert centres. Recent studies have verified oncologic integrity of LHR. However, mastering of LHR is still a quite demanding task limiting expansion of this patient friendly technique. This emphasizes the necessity of systematic training for laparoscopic liver surgery. This article reviews the state of the art of laparoscopic liver surgery lightening burning issues of research and clinical practice.

Is laparoscopic repeat hepatectomy feasible? A tri-institutional analysis

BACKGROUND

A laparoscopic approach has not been advocated for repeat hepatectomy on a large scale. This report analyzes the experience of 3 institutions pioneering laparoscopic repeat liver resection (LRLR). The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, safety, oncologic integrity, and outcomes of LRLR.

STUDY DESIGN

All patients undergoing LRLR were identified. Since 1997, 76 LRLRs have been attempted. Operative indications were metastasis (n = 63), hepatocellular carcinoma (n = 3), and benign tumors (n = 10). All patients had 1 or more earlier liver resections (28 open, 44 laparoscopic), including 16 major resections (en bloc removal of 3 or more Couinaud segments).

RESULTS

Eight conversions (11%) to open resections (n = 7) or radiofrequency ablation (n = 1) were required due to technical difficulties or hemorrhage. LRLRs included 49 wedge or segmental resections and 19 major hepatectomies. Median blood loss and operative time were 300 mL and 180 minutes. Patients with previous open liver resection (group B) experienced more intraoperative blood loss and transfusion requirements than those with earlier laparoscopic resections (group A) (p = 0.02; p = 0.01, respectively). R0 resection was achieved in 58 of 64 (91%) patients with malignant tumor. The incidence of postoperative complications and duration of hospital stay were not statistically different between the 2 groups. Bile leakages developed in 5 (6.6%) patients, including 1 requiring reoperation. There was no perioperative death. Median tumor size was 25 mm (range 5 to 125 mm) and the median number of tumors was 2 (range 1 to 7). Median follow-up was 23.5 months (range 0 to 86 months). There was no port-site metastasis. The 3- and 5-year actuarial survivals for patients with colorectal metastases were 83% and 55%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic repeat hepatic resections can be performed safely and with good results, particularly in patients with earlier laparoscopic resections.

Liver Surgery for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Laparoscopic versus Open Approach

In this study, we try to compare the benefit of laparoscopic versus open operative procedures. Patients and Methods. One hundred and sixteen patients underwent laparoscopic liver resection (LR) and another 208 patients went for open liver resection (OR) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Patients' selection for open or laparoscopic approach was not randomized. Results. The CLIP score for LR and OR was 0.59 ± 0.75 and 0.86 ± 1.04, respectively, (P = .016). The operation time was 156.3 ± 308.2 and 190.9 ± 79.2 min for LR and OR groups, respectively. The necessity for blood transfusion was found in 8 patients (6.9%) and 106 patients (50.9%) for LR and OR groups. Patients resumed full diet on the 2nd and 3rd postoperative day, and the average length of hospital stay was 6 days and 12 days for LR and OR groups. The complication rate and mortality rate were 0% and 6.0%, 2.9% and 30.2% for LR and OR groups, respectively. The 1-yr, 3-yr, and 5-yr survival rate was 87.0%, 70.4%, 62.2% and 83.2%, 76.0%, 71.8% for LR and OR group, respectively, of non-significant difference. From these results, HCC patients accepted laparoscopic or open approach were of no significant differences between their survival rates.

A case of laparoscopic hepatectomy for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma

Conventional hepatectomy is an effective way to treat hepatocellular carcinoma. However, it is invasive and stressful. The use of laparoscopy in hepatectomy, while technically demanding, reduces surgical invasiveness and stressfulness but still achieves complete resection with adequate margins. Compared with conventional hepatectomy, laparoscopic hepatectomy provides a better chance and situation for further surgery in the case of recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma. Even aged patients can successfully endure repeated hepatectomy using laparoscopy, as shown in the present report. This report presents a case of repeated laparoscopic hepatectomy treating hepatocellular carcinoma and its recurrence in an aged patient having cirrhosis, a disease causing extra difficulty for performing laparoscopic hepatectomy. The report also describes techniques of the operation and displays characteristic results of laparoscopic hepatectomy such as smaller wounds, less blood loss, less pain, less scars and adhesion, shorter postoperative hospital stay, and faster recovery.

World review of laparoscopic liver resection-2,804 patients

OBJECTIVE

To provide a review of the world literature on laparoscopic liver resection.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Initially described for peripheral, benign tumors resected by nonanatomic wedge resections, minimally invasive liver resections are now being performed more frequently, even for larger, malignant tumors located in challenging locations. Although a few small review articles have been reported, a comprehensive review on laparoscopic liver resection has not been published.

METHODS

We conducted a literature search using Pubmed, screening all English publications on laparoscopic liver resections. All data were analyzed and apparent case duplications in updated series were excluded from the total number of patients. Tumor type, operative characteristics, perioperative morbidity, and oncologic outcomes were tabulated.

RESULTS

A total of 127 published articles of original series on laparoscopic liver resection were identified, and accounted for 2,804 reported minimally invasive liver resections. Fifty percent were for malignant tumors, 45% were for benign lesions, 1.7% were for live donor hepatectomies, and the rest were indeterminate. Of the resections, 75% were performed totally laparoscopically, 17% were hand-assisted, and 2% were laparoscopic-assisted open hepatic resection (hybrid) technique, with the remainder being other techniques or conversions to open hepatectomies. The most common laparoscopic liver resection was a wedge resection or segmentectomy (45%) followed by anatomic left lateral sectionectomy (20%), right hepatectomy (9%), and left hepatectomy (7%). Conversion from laparoscopy to open laparotomy and from laparoscopy to hand-assisted approach occurred in 4.1% and 0.7% of reported cases, respectively. Overall mortality was 9 of 2,804 patients (0.3%), and morbidity was 10.5%, with no intraoperative deaths reported. The most common cause of postoperative death was liver failure. Postoperative bile leak was observed in 1.5% of cases. For cancer resections, negative surgical margins were achieved in 82% to 100% of reported series. The 5-year overall and disease-free survival rates after laparoscopic liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma were 50% to 75% and 31% to 38.2%, respectively. The 3-year overall and disease-free survival rates after laparoscopic liver resection for colorectal metastasis to the liver were 80% to 87% and 51%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In experienced hands, laparoscopic liver resections are safe with acceptable morbidity and mortality for both minor and major hepatic resections. Oncologically, 3- and 5-year survival rates reported for hepatocellular carcinoma and colorectal cancer metastases are comparable to open hepatic resection, albeit in a selected group of patients.

Ressecões hepáticas por videolaparoscopia

INTRODUÇÃO: As ressecções hepáticas representam umas das últimas fronteiras vencidas pela cirurgia videolaparoscópica. Apesar da complexidade do procedimento, da demanda de grande incorporação de tecnologia e necessidade de experiência em cirurgia hepática e laparoscópica, a indicação do método tem crescido de forma expressiva nos últimos anos. OBJETIVO: Realizar análise crítica do método, baseada nos trabalhos existentes na literatura, ressaltando o estado atual de suas indicações, exequibilidade, segurança, resultados e aspectos técnicos primordiais. MÉTODO: Foram identificados e analisados os trabalhos pertinentes nas bases de dados LILACS e PUBMED até dezembro de 2009, utilizando-se os descritores "liver resection", "laparoscopic" e "liver surgery". Não foram encontrados trabalhos prospectivos e randomizados sobre o tema, sendo os dados disponíveis provenientes de série de casos, estudos caso-controle e alguns estudos multicêntricos e metanálises. CONCLUSÃO: A hepatectomia por videolaparoscopia é hoje operação segura e factível, mesmo para as ressecções hepáticas maiores, com baixo índice de morbimortalidade. O método pode ser utilizado para lesões malignas sem prejuízo dos princípios oncológicos e com vantagens nos pacientes com cirrose ou disfunção hepática. A melhor indicação recai sobre as lesões benignas, em especial o adenoma hepatocelular. Em mãos experientes e casos selecionados, como as lesões benignas localizadas nos segmentos anterolaterais hepáticos, principalmente no segmento lateral esquerdo, a ressecção videolaparoscópica pode ser considerada hoje como tratamento padrão.

Laparoscopic liver surgery: 8 years of multicenter Spanish register

BACKGROUND

To present the data of laparoscopy in liver surgery and to assess the real indications and outcomes of this kind of approach.

METHODS

From February 2000 to March 2008, a prospective study was performed on 182 patients from 15 Spanish surgical centres.

RESULTS

A total of 308 lesions was collected. The mean age was 57 years old, and 61.5% were female. Among patients with cystic lesions we found: 45 simple cysts, 19 policystic diseases, 12 hydatidic cysts and 2 cystoadenomas. Among solid lesions (n = 104), we found 34 patients with benign pathology (12 focal nodular hyperplasia, 10 adenomas, 7 haemangyomas and 5 other lesions) and 70 with malignant pathology (38 metastases, 29 hepatocellular carcinomas, 2 cholangiocarcinomas and 1 lymphoma). The global rate of conversion was 8.8%. The global morbidity rate was 14.8%, and 5 of them required re-intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Nowadays there are strong criteria for patients being submitted to laparoscopy procedures based both on type and location features. The postoperative morbidity rate is low, also for hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic liver. In case of malignant pathology, we think the use of ultrasonography is mandatory to obtain a free margin, which implies a long-term survival rate.

Laparoscopic liver resection-understanding its role in current practice: the Henri Mondor Hospital experience

OBJECTIVE

To report our complete experience with laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) to understand what role it may play in the broader context of liver surgery.

BACKGROUND

The goal of LLR is to extend the benefits of the laparoscopic approach without compromising the fundamental principles of open liver surgery. LLR, however, presents unique technical challenges and its evaluation is made difficult by the restricted indications for this approach, the few centers world-wide experienced in the technique, and the heterogeneity of procedures and pathologies involved.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of liver resections from a unit with a comprehensive liver program, including resection and transplantation.

RESULTS

There were 166 laparoscopic liver resections between May 23, 1996 and December 31, 2007, including 100 (60%) for malignant pathology (64 HCC, 3 cholangiocarcinoma, 33 hepatic metastases) and 66 for benign pathology (adenoma, 23; FNH, 19; cystic, 17; other, 7). Numbers of resections for benign indications remained stable over time whereas those for malignant indications increased. There were 31 major resections, 56 left lateral sectionectomies, 28 segmentectomies, and 51 tumorectomies. There was 0% mortality and 15.1% morbidity. Median blood loss was 200 mL, 9 patients (5.4%) required transfusion, and median operating time was 180 minutes. Left lateral sectionectomies demonstrated reduced bleeding (median, 175 vs. 300 mL, P = 0.0015) and faster operating time (median, 170 vs. 180 minutes, P = 0.0265). In the second half of the experience, there was reduced bleeding (median, 200 vs. 300 mL, P = 0.0022) and a lower conversion rate (2.4% vs. 16.9%, P = 0.0015).

CONCLUSIONS

Good patient selection and refined surgical technique are the keys to successful LLR. The indications for resection of asymptomatic benign lesions should not be increased because the laparoscopic approach is available. Hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) are more likely to be suitable to a laparoscopic approach than colorectal liver metastases. Left lateral sectionectomy and limited resection of solitary peripheral lesions are particularly suitable while hemihepatectomies remain challenging procedures. LLR requires an ongoing robust audit to identify any emerging problems.

Laparoscopic liver resection: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Outcomes of laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) are not clarified. The objective of this article is to depict the state of the art of LLR by means of a systematic review of the literature.

METHODS

Studies about LLR published before September 2008 were identified and their results summarized.

RESULTS

Indications for laparoscopic hepatectomy do not differ from those for open surgery. Technical feasibility is the only limiting factor. Bleeding is the major intraoperative concern, but, if managed by an expert surgeon, do not worsen outcomes. Hand assistance can be useful in selected cases to avoid conversion. Patient selection must take both tumor location and size into consideration. Potentially good candidates are patients with peripheral lesions requiring limited hepatectomy or left lateral sectionectomy; their outcomes, including reduced blood loss, morbidity, and hospital stay, are better than those of their laparotomic counterparts. The same advantages have been observed in cirrhotics. Laparoscopic major hepatectomies and resections of postero-superior segments need further evaluation. The results of LLR in cancer patients seem to be similar to those obtained with the laparotomic approach, especially in cases of hepatocellular carcinoma, but further analysis is required.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic liver resection is safe and feasible. The laparoscopic approach can be recommended for peripheral lesions requiring limited hepatectomy or left lateral sectionectomy. Preliminary oncological results suggest non-inferiority of laparoscopic to laparotomic procedures.

Minimally invasive laparoscopic liver resection: 3D MDCT simulation for preoperative planning

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Laparoscopic liver resection has not gained wide acceptance compared with other laparoscopic procedures. We evaluated the impact of simulated surgery using data from multidetector CT scanning on planning for laparoscopic hepatectomy.

METHODS

The hepatectomy simulation system was programmed to perform three-dimensional reconstruction of the vasculature and to calculate the liver resection volume and surgical margin. In 35 patients undergoing laparoscopic hepatectomy or laparoscopy-assisted hepatectomy, the liver resection volume and margin were estimated by simulation preoperatively. Then, the estimated values were compared with the actual resected liver weight and margin.

RESULTS

Three-dimensional reconstruction allowed stereoscopic identification of the tumor-bearing portal vein and draining vein. The predicted liver resection volume and margin both showed a significant correlation with the actual values: the mean difference was 21 mL (P < 0.0001) and 1.3 mm (P < 0.01), respectively. Preoperative planning based on simulated resection facilitated laparoscopic mobilization of the liver and mini-laparotomy resection of a large tumor located in the upper right lobe.

CONCLUSIONS

Three-dimensional simulation of hepatectomy facilitated intraoperative identification of the vascular anatomy, and accurately predicted the resected liver volume and surgical margin. This simulation method should contribute to preoperative planning for safe and curative laparoscopic hepatectomy.

Laparoscopic left lateral sectionectomy: surgical technique and our results from Leeds

BACKGROUND

Although laparoscopic left lateral sectionectomy is increasingly becoming the accepted approach for resection of tumors in hepatic segments II and III, the variations in surgical technique exist.

METHODS

Our technique relies on mobilization of the left lateral sector followed by extracorporeal control of the portal pedicle allowing intermittent occlusion when needed. The parenchyma is thinned, exposing the inflow and outflow allowing application of endoscopic staplers under direct vision for parenchymal transection.

RESULTS

Eleven patients underwent left lateral sectionectomy between 2000 and November 2007 and had a median postoperative stay of 3 days. Two patients had to be converted early on.

CONCLUSION

Left lateral sectionectomy using this approach appears to be safe and reproducible, and this technique should be considered for patients with tumors in hepatic segments II and III.

Laparoscopic left hemihepatectomy: a safety and feasibility study of 19 cases

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic liver resection was performed at some institutes. The procedure mainly included local resection, segmentectomy, and left lateral segmentectomy. With experience accumulation and technique innovation, laparoscopic left hemihepatectomy was performed in selected patients. This study was designed to introduce and evaluate the safety and feasibility of this procedure.

METHODS

Nineteen successive patients underwent laparoscopic left hemihepatectomy from 2005 to 2007. They were compared by the matched-pair method with 19 other patients who underwent conventional open left hemihepatectomy. Surgical feature, postoperative course, and the learning curve of laparoscopic left hemihepatectomy were studied.

RESULTS

Laparoscopic hemihepatectomy was successfully performed in 17 cases. Two conversions were required. Compared with the open group, the blood loss was significantly less in the laparoscopic group (462 +/- 372 vs. 895 +/- 704, p = 0.03). Postoperative hospital stay of the laparoscopic group was shorter but not significant compared with the open group (9 +/- 5 vs. 13 +/- 7, p = 0.086). Postoperative albumin level in the laparoscopic group was significantly higher than the open group (33 +/- 4.8 vs. 27.6 +/- 3.2, p = 0.001). There was no perioperative mortality in either group. Two complications occurred in the laparoscopic group (11%) and four in the open group (21%). A tendency of gradually decreased transecting time was noticed in the early cases (R(2) = 0.676; p = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic left hemihepatectomy is a safe and feasible procedure for select patients.

Laparoscopic liver resection for cancer

The field of laparoscopic liver resection surgery has rapidly evolved, with more than 1000 cases now reported. Laparoscopic hepatic resection was initially described for small, peripheral, benign lesions. Experienced teams are now performing laparoscopic anatomic resections for cancer. Operative times improved with experience. When compared with open cases, blood loss was less in most laparoscopic series, but was the main indication for conversion to an open procedure. Patients undergoing laparoscopic resection had shorter length of hospital stay and quicker recovery. Perioperative complications were comparable between the two approaches. Importantly, basic oncologic principles were maintained in the laparoscopic liver resections. The purpose of this review is to summarize the data available on outcomes for laparoscopic hepatic resection for cancer. This includes primary hepatocellular carcinoma, as well as metastatic colorectal cancer to the liver. The evidence to date suggests that laparoscopic results are comparable with the open approach in cancer patients.

Laparoscopic versus open liver segmentectomy: prospective, case-matched, intention-to-treat analysis of clinical outcomes and cost effectiveness

INTRODUCTION

Reduction in hospital stay, blood loss, postoperative pain and complications are common findings after laparoscopic liver resection, suggesting that the laparoscopic approach may be a suitable alternative to open surgery. Some concerns have been raised regarding cost effectiveness of this procedure and potential implications of its large-scale application. Our aim has been to determine cost effectiveness of laparoscopic liver surgery by a case-matched, case-control, intention-to-treat analysis of its costs and short-term clinical outcomes compared with open surgery.

METHODS

Laparoscopic liver segmentectomies and bisegmentectomies performed at Ninewells Hospital and Medical School between 2005 and 2007 were considered. Resections involving more than two Couinaud segments, or involving any synchronous procedure, were excluded. An operation-magnitude-matched control group was identified amongst open liver resections performed between 2004 and 2007. Hospital costs were obtained from the Scottish Health Service Costs Book (ISD Scotland) and average national costs were calculated. Cost of theatre time, disposable surgical devices, hospital stay, and high-dependency unit (HDU) and intensive care unit (ICU) usage were the main endpoints for comparison. Secondary endpoints were morbidity and mortality. Statistical analysis was performed with Student's t-test, chi(2) and Fisher exact test as most appropriate.

RESULTS

Twenty-five laparoscopic liver resections were considered, including atypical resection, segmentectomy and bisegmentectomy, and they were compared to 25 matching open resections. The two groups were homogeneous by age, sex, coexistent morbidity, magnitude of resection, prevalence of liver cirrhosis and indications. Operative time (p < 0.03), blood loss (p < 0.0001), Pringle manoeuvre (p < 0.03), hospital stay (p < 0.003) and postoperative complications (p < 0.002) were significantly reduced in the laparoscopic group. Overall hospital cost was significantly lower in the laparoscopic group by an average of 2,571 pounds sterling (p < 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic liver segmentectomy and bisegmentectomy are feasible, safe and cost effective compared to similar open resections. Large-scale application of laparoscopic liver surgery could translate into significant savings to hospitals and health care programmes.

Surgical management of hepatocellular adenoma: take it or leave it?

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular adenoma (HA) is a rare benign tumor of the liver. Surgical resection is generally indicated to reduce risks of hemorrhage and malignant transformation. We sought to evaluate clinical presentation, surgical management, and outcomes of patients with HA at our institution.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of 41 patients who underwent surgical resection for HA between 1988 and 2007.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight patients were women, and the median age at presentation was 36 years (range, 19-65 years). The most common clinical presentation was abdominal pain (70%) followed by incidental radiological finding (17%). Twenty-two patients had a history of oral contraceptive use. Median number of HA was one (range, 1-3). There were 32 open cases (3 trisectionectomy, 15 hemihepatectomy, 7 sectionectomy, 4 segmentectomy, and 3 wedge resection), and 9 laparoscopic cases (1 hemihepatectomy, 5 sectionectomy, 1 segmentectomy, and 2 wedge resection). The median estimated blood loss was 225 mL (range, 0-3400 mL). The median length of stay was 6 days (range, 1-15 days). Surgical morbidities included pleural effusion requiring percutaneous drainage (n = 2), pneumonia (n = 1), and wound infection (n = 1). There was no perioperative mortality. Twelve patients had hemorrhage from HA. Hepatocellular carcinoma was observed in two patients with HA. Median follow-up was 23 months (range, 1-194 months), at which time all patients were alive.

CONCLUSION

In view of 29% hemorrhagic and 5% malignant complication rates, we recommend surgical resection over observation if patient comorbidities and anatomic location of HA are favorable. A laparoscopic approach can be safely used in selected cases.

Anatomical segmental hepatectomy under the guidance of ultrasongraphy

AIM: To assess the feasibility, safety and clinical value of laparoscopic anatomical segmental hepatectomy under the guidance of ultrasongraphy.

METHODS: We performed laparoscopic liver resection in 20 patients from January 2005 to October 2006, including 13 cases of hepatocellular carcinoma, 1 case of cholangiocarcinoma, 3 cases of hemangioma, 1 case of adenoma, and 2 cases of liver abscess. All the cases received laparoscopic liver anatomy under endoscopic ultrasound guidance in complete pneumopertoneum.

RESULTS: The mean operating time was 188 min, and the mean blood loss was 300 mL. There were no uncontrollable complications. The mean time of hospital stay after operation was 8.6 d.

CONCLUSION: Segment-based hepatectomy under the guidance of ultrasonography conforms to the principle in tumor treatment and is worthy of being applied in liver surgery.

Laparoscopic Habib 4X: a bipolar radiofrequency device for bloodless laparoscopic liver resection

BACKGROUND

In recent years the progress of laparoscopic procedures and the development of new and dedicated technologies have made laparoscopic hepatic surgery feasible and safe. In spite of this laparoscopic liver resection remains a surgical procedure of great challenge because of the risk of massive bleeding during liver transection and the complicated biliary and vascular anatomy in the liver. A new laparoscopic device is reported here to assist liver resection laparoscopically.

METHODS

The laparoscopic Habib 4X is a bipolar radiofrequency device consisting of a 2 x 2 array of needles arranged in a rectangle. It is introduced perpendicularly into the liver, along the intended transection line. It produces coagulative necrosis of the liver parenchyma sealing biliary radicals and blood vessels and enables bloodless transection of the liver parenchyma.

RESULTS

Twenty-four Laparoscopic liver resections were performed with LH4X out of a total of 28 attempted resections over 12 months. Pringle manoeuvre was not used in any of the patients. None of the patients required intraoperative transfusion of red cells or blood products.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic liver resection can be safely performed with laparoscopic Habib 4X with a significantly low risk of intraoperative bleeding or postoperative complications.

Laparoscopic liver resections for hepatocellular carcinoma. Is it a feasible option for patients with liver cirrhosis?

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic surgery has gained growing acceptance, but this does not hold for laparoscopic surgery of the liver, above all for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cirrhosis. This approach mainly includes diagnostic procedures and interstitial therapies. However, we believe there is room for laparoscopic liver resections in well-selected cases. The aim of this study is to assess: (a) the risk of intraoperative bleeding and postoperative complications, (b) the safety and the respect of oncological criteria, and (c) the potential benefit of laparoscopic ultrasound in guiding liver resection.

METHODS

A prospective study of laparoscopic liver resections for hepatocellular carcinoma was undertaken in patients with compensated cirrhosis. Hepatic involvement had to be limited and located in the left or peripheral right segments (segments 2-6), and the tumor had to be 5 cm or smaller. Tumor location and its transection margins were defined by laparoscopic ultrasound.

RESULTS

From January 1997, 22 out of 250 patients with HCC (9%) underwent laparoscopic liver resections. The mean patient age was 61.4 years (range, 50-79 years). In three patients, conversion to laparotomy was necessary. The laparoscopic resections included five bisegmentectoies (2 and 3), nine segmentectomies, two subsegmentectomies and three nonanatomical resections for extrahepatic growing lesions. The mean operative time, including laparoscopic ultrasonography, was 199 +/- 69 min (median, 220; range, 80-300). Perioperative blood loss was 183 +/- 72 ml (median, 160; range, 80-400 ml). There was no mortality. Postoperative complications occurred in two out of 19 patients: an abdominal wall hematoma occurred in one patient and a bleeding from a trocar access in the other patient requiring a laparoscopic re-exploration. Mean hospital stay of the whole series was 6.5 +/- 4.3 days (median, 5; range, 4-25), while the mean hospital stay of the 19 laparoscopic patients was 5.4 +/- 1 (median, 5; range, 4-8).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic treatment should be considered in selected patients with HCC and liver cirrhosis in the left lobe or segments 5 and 6 of the liver. It is clear that certain types of laparoscopic resection are feasible and safe when carried out by adequately skilled surgeons with appropriate instruments.