Laparoscopic liver resection compared with conventional partial hepatectomy - A prospective analysis

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Tumor size and location are the major influences on the practicality of a laparoscopic operation. Visual control of the operating field is important for isolation and ligation of blood vessels and bile ducts after selective liver dissection by suitable techniques such as the waterjet dissector. METHODOLOGY: We carried out laparoscopic liver resections with the Jet-Cutter in 17 patients. The results were compared to a control group of 17 closely matched patients undergoing conventional hepatic resection during the period of the study. In 1 patient, conversion of laparoscopic to an open operation was required. RESULTS:Early in our learning curve, the duration of operation and time for resection were significantly longer in the laparoscopic group. Following laparoscopic operation, patients were discharged from the hospital after a mean of 7.8+/-8.2 days; patients having undergone conventional operation were discharged after a mean of 11.6+/-12.8 days. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic liver resection is technically feasible, but, at present, careful patient selection is required.