**3. Imaging**

92 Updated Topics in Minimally Invasive Abdominal Surgery

Two-thirds of patients undergoing liver resection for CRLM will develop recurrence of their disease within 2 years 32. One third will manifest with liver only disease and a small proportion of them will be suitable for repeat liver resection 41. Technically repeat liver resections are demanding. However long-term survival is similar to those following initial liver resections for open resections 42 43 . In a series of 60 third hepatectomies 43 complication rates were similar to those having first and second hepatectomies with no obvious survival disadvantage. Five year survival rates of 32% have been reported after open resection. Multivariate analysis suggests a curative resection (R0) as the most important predictor of improved survival after open resection. There are no studies reporting repeat LLR but these are likely to be technically more challenging. Further studies are needed to evaluate repeat

The treatment of HCC covers a broad spectrum including surgical (Resection, Ablation or Liver Transplant-LT) and non-surgical treatments (Sphere therapy, TACE, Sorafenib). Mortality after liver resection in large series of non cirrhotics are now around 3%. Yet in large volume centres in the east, mortality after resection for HCC in cirrhotics is now approaching zero. Substantial refinements in the surgical techniques have played an important role including the development of liver "hardware" such as ultrasonic dissectors, low CVP anaesthesia, hepatoduodenal compression (Pringle's manoeuvre) and vascular staplers have all contributed to reducing blood loss, post-op morbidity and mortality 44. There is no doubt that the results of LT for primary HCC have improved dramatically in the last decade following the publication of the Milan criteria by Mazzaferro et al. in 1996 45. Consequently more patients with HCC are being referred for consideration of LT and the management of these patients on the ever expanding waiting list present an interesting cohort of patients to discuss. With this in mind bridging treatments such as resection, chemo-embolisation or ablation by RFA are becoming increasingly important The clinical characteristics after such treatments are also important in terms of predicting overall

One of the disadvantages of resection is tumour recurrence as some suggest that this can hinder subsequent LT 46 yet this has not been substantiated by others and in terms of technical difficulty is no different to re-transplantation for other indications 47. To avoid this problem there is a niche for the development of LLR which can reduce morbidity and have an impact on curative intent as a potential bridging treatment. Resection can be useful as a bridging treatment if patients are Childs A with a low MELD score, have a small tumour <3cm without any obvious macroscopic tumour thrombus 44. Overall 3 year survival rates in patients with Child's A cirrhosis can be as high as 93% 48 for segmental resections. Segmental resections are best performed given the risks of recurrence with non segmental resections due to microscopic satellite nodules that are not easily visualised by intraoperative ultrasound. Comparisons of LLR with open resection for HCC in cirrhotic patients are favourable 49 <sup>50</sup> <sup>51</sup> 52 but the main advantage of LLR is a shorter hospital stay and less blood loss. LLR is also less likely to lead to problematic adhesions if LT is required at a later date. Numerous single centre 49 <sup>50</sup> <sup>53</sup> 54 and multi-centre series 55 have published their series of LLR in patients with HCC and cirrhosis confirming it is safe and reproducible without

LLR in terms of survival rates and complications.

**2.5 Hepatocellular carcinoma** 

oncological compromise or survival.

prognosis.

#### **3.1 Computed tomography**

This modality is the work-horse of all imaging techniques in the pre-operative planning phase for LLR. Present generation triple phase multi-detector CT scanning technology enables image acquisition during a single-breath hold, of the entire chest and abdomen and pelvis. The improved resolution results in excellent detection of lesions in solid organs and enables better local, regional and distant staging. The other advantage of CT scanning is the high incidence of detection of lesions in the lung, liver and pelvis, when intravenous contrast is used with arterial or venous phase scanning. Slice thickness or maximum collimation should be 3- 5mm. The sensitivity for detecting a metastatic lesion approaches 80%, which increases to 90% when CT angiography is used, however lesions less than 1 cm in size are liable to be missed 56. Contrast enhanced helical CT is the investigation of choice in the initial evaluation of liver tumours assessing response to chemotherapeutic agents and for post-operative surveillance for tumour recurrence.

#### **3.2 Magnetic resonance imaging**

Magnetic resonance imaging has an extremely high sensitivity in identifying and characterizing small lesions within the liver. In addition patients are not exposed to radiation but the procedure is far more expensive and labour intensive. One of its limitations is the identification of extra hepatic disease. The technique is very sensitive to respiratory artefact and this can limit its resolution in certain patients who are unable to hold their breath for a sufficient length of time. Contrast agents such as gadolinium and the liver specific super magnetic iron oxide result in very high sensitivities in diagnosing small (less than 1 cm) liver metastases 57 and differentiating between potentially malignant and benign liver lesions (e.g. FNH, adenoma etc). Usually MR imaging is utilised just prior to resection, in order to identify small lesions not visualised by conventional CT scanning but this is not universally routine.

#### **3.3 Intra-operative ultrasound**

Intra-operative ultrasound (IOUS) is an essential pre-requisite for assessment of the liver prior to commencement of liver resection. IOUS allows for mapping of the major vascular and ductal structures in relation to the metastasis and aids in planning the final approach to resection. It also serves as a guide in confirming the accuracy of the plane of dissection. However following chemotherapy, when fatty change supervenes and in the presence of cirrhosis, identification of small iso-echoic masses becomes poor, decreasing the sensitivity of IOUS. IOUS must be used before, during and at the end of resection in order to keep R1 resection rates as low as possible. It is also important to leave an adequate margin around the tumour and to mark the margins prior to commencing parenchymal transaction. This is also useful to avoid coning as it is very difficult to estimate the depth of a tumour without measuring the dimensions.

#### **4. Anaesthesia**

One of the overlooked contra-indications for LLR is the patients inability to withstand a prolonged pneumoperitoneum especially with major resections e.g. right hepatectomy. Results of left lateral liver resection suggest that resection time can be comparable to open.

Laparoscopic Liver Surgery 95

5 mm ports in the right and left anterior axilliary line **(Figure 5).** For tumours positioned in segments IVa and VIII, high up towards the dome of the right diaphragm a further 10mm port is placed at the xiphisternum to allow for CUSA parenchymal division (Integra, Saint

Priest, France, USA)

Fig. 4. The surgeons preferred position for lap resection

Fig. 5. Port position for lap left lateral resection

The median duration in the literature is around 2-3 hours 58 . In the authors experience laparoscopic left lateral resection can be performed as quick laparoscopically as open once the learning curve has been overcome. Transection time can be less than 1 hour as reported in a recent meta-analysis 59. For major hepatectomy operative times are prolonged and the duration of anaesthesia can be in excess of 5 hours compared to 3 hours for open surgery 60 61. This can be reduced by performing a hybrid resection or, using a hand-port as it is generally the parenchymal transection and dealing with the right hepatic vein that causes the prolonged pneumoperitoneum. In the UK most centres use epidural anaesthesia for post-operative pain relief but for LLR the duration of anaesthesia can be significantly reduced as an epidural and central venous pressure line are no longer required.

Few studies have reported the consequences of the prolonged peritoneum. There is no doubt that increased intra-abdominal pressure reduces liver, renal lower limb and mesenteric blood flow. It also increases cardiac output and arterial pressures . The presence of obesity exacerbates these problems further. Careful consideration therefore needs to be given to those patients with significant renal and cardiac disease. There is also experimental evidence that prolonged peritoneum can impair post-operative liver regeneration, oxidative stress and hepatocellular damage62. Sometimes the pneumoperitoneum can have advantages in that during bleeding a careful increase in intra-abdominal pressure can reduce bleeding and allow parenchymal transection without portal clamping. However prolonged pneumoperitoneum with portal clamping can cause a significant reduction in hepatic oxygen tensions, tissue hypoxia, with higher transaminase and increased tissue necrosis 63. Gas embolism is also thought to be of concern in that it can cause haemodynamic disturbance in 50% of episodes but usually has no clinical consequences as the solubility of carbon dioxide is greater than nitrogen. It is important to avoid high intra-abdominal pressures when dissecting the major venous structures in an effort to avoid this problem 64. By controlling the differential pressures between the pneumoperitoneum and central venous pressure the risk of air embolism can be reduced significantly.

#### **5. Techniques of laparoscopic liver resection**

Definitions of laparoscopic liver surgery have been standardised. There are 3 techniques, totally laparoscopic, hand assisted and hybrid 11. Hand assisted can be used either at the start of the operation or introduced at any time to aid dissection. This is most often performed during right hepatectomy or major resection and to control bleeding. Hybrid procedures comprise either totally laparoscopic converted to hand assisted and then the operation is completed through a small incision usually this is for parenchymal transection or to aid mobilisation of the right or left lobe after hilar dissection.

#### **5.1 Patient positioning**

During resection of the left lateral segment, and tumours within the anterior segments e.g. IVb, V, VI the patient is positioned in the supine position with split legs with the surgeon standing in between them and the assistants on each side **(Figure 4).** For tumours placed in the posterior segments (VI and VII), patients are positioned in the left lateral decubitus position. For those patients positioned supine with split legs, five ports (ENDO PATH Xcel ™, Ethicon Endosurgery, LLC, USA) are positioned; three 12 mm ports: the first at the umbilicus (sometimes higher if distance between the xiphoid and umbilicus is greater than 15 cm), the second and third working ports in the right and left mid clavicular line; and two

The median duration in the literature is around 2-3 hours 58 . In the authors experience laparoscopic left lateral resection can be performed as quick laparoscopically as open once the learning curve has been overcome. Transection time can be less than 1 hour as reported in a recent meta-analysis 59. For major hepatectomy operative times are prolonged and the duration of anaesthesia can be in excess of 5 hours compared to 3 hours for open surgery 60 61. This can be reduced by performing a hybrid resection or, using a hand-port as it is generally the parenchymal transection and dealing with the right hepatic vein that causes the prolonged pneumoperitoneum. In the UK most centres use epidural anaesthesia for post-operative pain relief but for LLR the duration of anaesthesia can be significantly

Few studies have reported the consequences of the prolonged peritoneum. There is no doubt that increased intra-abdominal pressure reduces liver, renal lower limb and mesenteric blood flow. It also increases cardiac output and arterial pressures . The presence of obesity exacerbates these problems further. Careful consideration therefore needs to be given to those patients with significant renal and cardiac disease. There is also experimental evidence that prolonged peritoneum can impair post-operative liver regeneration, oxidative stress and hepatocellular damage62. Sometimes the pneumoperitoneum can have advantages in that during bleeding a careful increase in intra-abdominal pressure can reduce bleeding and allow parenchymal transection without portal clamping. However prolonged pneumoperitoneum with portal clamping can cause a significant reduction in hepatic oxygen tensions, tissue hypoxia, with higher transaminase and increased tissue necrosis 63. Gas embolism is also thought to be of concern in that it can cause haemodynamic disturbance in 50% of episodes but usually has no clinical consequences as the solubility of carbon dioxide is greater than nitrogen. It is important to avoid high intra-abdominal pressures when dissecting the major venous structures in an effort to avoid this problem 64. By controlling the differential pressures between the pneumoperitoneum and central venous

Definitions of laparoscopic liver surgery have been standardised. There are 3 techniques, totally laparoscopic, hand assisted and hybrid 11. Hand assisted can be used either at the start of the operation or introduced at any time to aid dissection. This is most often performed during right hepatectomy or major resection and to control bleeding. Hybrid procedures comprise either totally laparoscopic converted to hand assisted and then the operation is completed through a small incision usually this is for parenchymal transection

During resection of the left lateral segment, and tumours within the anterior segments e.g. IVb, V, VI the patient is positioned in the supine position with split legs with the surgeon standing in between them and the assistants on each side **(Figure 4).** For tumours placed in the posterior segments (VI and VII), patients are positioned in the left lateral decubitus position. For those patients positioned supine with split legs, five ports (ENDO PATH Xcel ™, Ethicon Endosurgery, LLC, USA) are positioned; three 12 mm ports: the first at the umbilicus (sometimes higher if distance between the xiphoid and umbilicus is greater than 15 cm), the second and third working ports in the right and left mid clavicular line; and two

reduced as an epidural and central venous pressure line are no longer required.

pressure the risk of air embolism can be reduced significantly.

or to aid mobilisation of the right or left lobe after hilar dissection.

**5. Techniques of laparoscopic liver resection** 

**5.1 Patient positioning** 

5 mm ports in the right and left anterior axilliary line **(Figure 5).** For tumours positioned in segments IVa and VIII, high up towards the dome of the right diaphragm a further 10mm port is placed at the xiphisternum to allow for CUSA parenchymal division (Integra, Saint Priest, France, USA)

Fig. 4. The surgeons preferred position for lap resection

Fig. 5. Port position for lap left lateral resection

Laparoscopic Liver Surgery 97

A nylon tape is passed through the snare in the tip of a Gold finger ™ (Ethicon Endo Surgery, Johnson & Johnson, USA). As the tip of the Gold finger is blunt and atraumatic, it can safely be introduced through a 10 mm working port in the right upper quadrant. It is best to do this through the right sided port as the natural curvature of the liver from this side avoids placing the tip into the caudate lobe and porta-hepatis if done from the left side. The hepato-duodenal ligament is then cradled by the 'Gold finger ™' (Ethicon Endo Surgery, Johnson & Johnson, USA). The Gold finger is then advanced beyond the portahepatis until the tip with the nylon tape can be visualised on the left side of the hepatoduodenal ligament. As the tip of the Gold finger is atraumatic, it can be safely deployed the tip is then flexed and articulated to 90 degrees. The tape can then be grasped through the port placed in the left upper quadrant in the mid-clavicular line **(Figure 6).** The two ends are positioned through the port onto the anterior abdominal wall and placed through a 'snugger' using tubing (Suction tubing 10 cm, 7 mm, Pennine Healthcare Ltd, UK). The port

Portal triad clamping (Pringle's manoeuvre) is one of the methods used to reduce bleeding from the hepatic transection plane. This manoeuvre of encircling the hepato-duodenal ligament with a nylon tape is widely used and is easily performed during conventional open surgery. However, this step can be difficult and technically challenging during laparoscopic liver surgery and not all surgeons place a tape laparoscopically for fear of injury to the IVC and structures within the porta hepatitis. For major laparoscopic resection it is a vital adjunct to reduce haemorrhage. This is as a result of the two dimensional view during laparoscopy and the ergonomics of most laparoscopic instruments make this manipulation blind with the potential of injury to vital structures. Most of the literature on totally laparoscopic liver resection mentions the placement of a tape or vascular sling around the portal triad in the hepato-duodenal ligament in case a Pringle's manoeuvre is necessary during parenchymal division 21 although opinions differ 65 <sup>14</sup> 66 and once experience has been gained for minor resections is often not necessary at all, even in some cirrhotic patients 67 Nonetheless it is our policy to always place a tape around the hepatoduodenal ligament

Some surgeons use a tape around the hepato-duodenal ligament with intra-peritoneal clamping. However, this uses up an extra port as an instrument clamps it on the inside. Moreover laparoscopic instruments are not robust enough to give a satisfactory clamp. The technique of using the Gold finger to facilitate placement of a tape around the hepatoduodenal ligament for the Pringle manoeuvre is an easy, safe and efficient technique. This manoeuvre is performed easily in a few minutes. Although this technique has evolved in a small series we believe this to be a simplified technique that is much easier and safer for

There are many preferences for hilar dissection for major resection e.g. right trisectionetomy, right hepatectomy or left hepatectomy. Intra-hepatic 68 or extra-hepatic 69 (conventional or anterior approach) division of major structures have both been described**.** It is the authors practice to divide all major structures extra-hepatically with the exception of the hepatic bile duct. This is divided last of all, within the liver parenchyma, using a suitable stapling device. Fortunately the use of vascular staplers with roticulators has overcome most of the

is removed and replaced with the tape lying adjacent to the side of the port.

for training purposes.

laparoscopic liver resection.

**6.1 Hilar dissection** 

**6. Parenchymal transection and haemostasis** 

Left hepatectomy can usually be performed using similar port positions to left lateral resection. For right hepatectomy the surgeon stands between the patients legs with two assistants on either side. The right side and right shoulder are slightly elevated. Ports are shifted to the right and are placed as far across as the mid axillary line **(Figures 7a and 7b).**  A hand port, if required, is usually placed in the right iliac fossa **(Figure 8).** If it is placed too high the hand will be over the liver, if it placed too low the surgeon has to stoop for prolonged periods which can become uncomfortable. A laparoscopic port can also be placed through the hand port to assist with totally laparoscopic dissection. Right hepatectomy hepatectomy should only be performed if the tumour is located away from the hilum or the RHV or IVC so as to give an oncologically sound resection.

#### **5.2 Pringle's manoeuvre**

A staging laparoscopy is performed first to rule out the presence of significant extra-hepatic disease although this is often limited due to dense pelvic adhesions. Laparoscopic ultrasound (7.5 MHz, Aloka Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan) of the liver is then performed to define the vascular anatomy and to confirm the location of metastases. The liver can be lifted by two methods; early in our series a Nathanson hook was placed at the xiphisternum as described for Nissen's Fundiplication. This elevates the left lateral segment and the hepatoduodenal ligament off the inferior vena cava thus ensuring good access through the foramen of Winslow and giving fixed retraction for all hilar dissection. Now either a hand retractor (fan), diamond flex or goldfinger retractor can be placed through a 5mm port to elevate the LLS. The xiphisternal Nathanson Hook can then be replaced with a 5mm port after hilar dissection to assist with tumours high on the dome of VIII.

An alternative method is to retract the falciform ligament towards the shoulder but this uses an instrument through a 5 mm port. A better approach is to divide the falciform ligament and then place an Endoloop ™ (Autosuture, Tyco Healthcare UK Ltd) around the free edge of the ligamentum teres. This can be retracted superiorly by bringing this through the anterior abdominal wall using an 'Endo Close™' (Autosuture, Tyco Healthcare UK Ltd) device. The suture is then held in a haemostat thus holding the ligament against the anterior abdominal wall. The gallbladder can also be used for retraction but some patients may have already had this removed. Calot's triangle should be dissected first and the cystic duct and cystic artery divided.. Sometimes it is necessary to partially dissect the infundibulum of the gallbladder prior to retraction over the liver. This elevates the liver and also assists with access to the posterior surface of V and VI.

Once the liver has been retracted and the hepato-duodenal ligament has been lifted a tape can then be placed. The pars lucida is opened, care being taken to look for an accessory left hepatic artery. To place a tourniquet around the hepato-duodenal ligament a 'Gold finger' (Gold finger ™, Blunt Dissector and Suture Retrieval System, Ethicon Endo Surgery, Johnson & Johnson, USA) is used. This is an endoscopic dissector previously developed for laparoscopic bariatric surgery. The Gold finger is a long instrument with a versatile tip which is used to help position laparoscopic gastric bands and creation of a retro-gastric tunnel. The tip is blunt and includes a slot to snare and pull a pre-tied suture, and a keyhole for multiple gastric bands. The tip can be set at varying degrees between the neutral position and 90 degrees. It has multi-positional flexibility, is malleable and provides precise articulation. The Gold finger has a one-handed, ergonomic operation which enables precise dissection and controlled grasping and snaring. It is also disposable and ensures sterility and consistent performance.

Left hepatectomy can usually be performed using similar port positions to left lateral resection. For right hepatectomy the surgeon stands between the patients legs with two assistants on either side. The right side and right shoulder are slightly elevated. Ports are shifted to the right and are placed as far across as the mid axillary line **(Figures 7a and 7b).**  A hand port, if required, is usually placed in the right iliac fossa **(Figure 8).** If it is placed too high the hand will be over the liver, if it placed too low the surgeon has to stoop for prolonged periods which can become uncomfortable. A laparoscopic port can also be placed through the hand port to assist with totally laparoscopic dissection. Right hepatectomy hepatectomy should only be performed if the tumour is located away from the hilum or the

A staging laparoscopy is performed first to rule out the presence of significant extra-hepatic disease although this is often limited due to dense pelvic adhesions. Laparoscopic ultrasound (7.5 MHz, Aloka Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan) of the liver is then performed to define the vascular anatomy and to confirm the location of metastases. The liver can be lifted by two methods; early in our series a Nathanson hook was placed at the xiphisternum as described for Nissen's Fundiplication. This elevates the left lateral segment and the hepatoduodenal ligament off the inferior vena cava thus ensuring good access through the foramen of Winslow and giving fixed retraction for all hilar dissection. Now either a hand retractor (fan), diamond flex or goldfinger retractor can be placed through a 5mm port to elevate the LLS. The xiphisternal Nathanson Hook can then be replaced with a 5mm port after hilar

An alternative method is to retract the falciform ligament towards the shoulder but this uses an instrument through a 5 mm port. A better approach is to divide the falciform ligament and then place an Endoloop ™ (Autosuture, Tyco Healthcare UK Ltd) around the free edge of the ligamentum teres. This can be retracted superiorly by bringing this through the anterior abdominal wall using an 'Endo Close™' (Autosuture, Tyco Healthcare UK Ltd) device. The suture is then held in a haemostat thus holding the ligament against the anterior abdominal wall. The gallbladder can also be used for retraction but some patients may have already had this removed. Calot's triangle should be dissected first and the cystic duct and cystic artery divided.. Sometimes it is necessary to partially dissect the infundibulum of the gallbladder prior to retraction over the liver. This elevates the liver and also assists with

Once the liver has been retracted and the hepato-duodenal ligament has been lifted a tape can then be placed. The pars lucida is opened, care being taken to look for an accessory left hepatic artery. To place a tourniquet around the hepato-duodenal ligament a 'Gold finger' (Gold finger ™, Blunt Dissector and Suture Retrieval System, Ethicon Endo Surgery, Johnson & Johnson, USA) is used. This is an endoscopic dissector previously developed for laparoscopic bariatric surgery. The Gold finger is a long instrument with a versatile tip which is used to help position laparoscopic gastric bands and creation of a retro-gastric tunnel. The tip is blunt and includes a slot to snare and pull a pre-tied suture, and a keyhole for multiple gastric bands. The tip can be set at varying degrees between the neutral position and 90 degrees. It has multi-positional flexibility, is malleable and provides precise articulation. The Gold finger has a one-handed, ergonomic operation which enables precise dissection and controlled grasping and snaring. It is also disposable and ensures sterility

RHV or IVC so as to give an oncologically sound resection.

dissection to assist with tumours high on the dome of VIII.

access to the posterior surface of V and VI.

and consistent performance.

**5.2 Pringle's manoeuvre** 

A nylon tape is passed through the snare in the tip of a Gold finger ™ (Ethicon Endo Surgery, Johnson & Johnson, USA). As the tip of the Gold finger is blunt and atraumatic, it can safely be introduced through a 10 mm working port in the right upper quadrant. It is best to do this through the right sided port as the natural curvature of the liver from this side avoids placing the tip into the caudate lobe and porta-hepatis if done from the left side. The hepato-duodenal ligament is then cradled by the 'Gold finger ™' (Ethicon Endo Surgery, Johnson & Johnson, USA). The Gold finger is then advanced beyond the portahepatis until the tip with the nylon tape can be visualised on the left side of the hepatoduodenal ligament. As the tip of the Gold finger is atraumatic, it can be safely deployed the tip is then flexed and articulated to 90 degrees. The tape can then be grasped through the port placed in the left upper quadrant in the mid-clavicular line **(Figure 6).** The two ends are positioned through the port onto the anterior abdominal wall and placed through a 'snugger' using tubing (Suction tubing 10 cm, 7 mm, Pennine Healthcare Ltd, UK). The port is removed and replaced with the tape lying adjacent to the side of the port.

Portal triad clamping (Pringle's manoeuvre) is one of the methods used to reduce bleeding from the hepatic transection plane. This manoeuvre of encircling the hepato-duodenal ligament with a nylon tape is widely used and is easily performed during conventional open surgery. However, this step can be difficult and technically challenging during laparoscopic liver surgery and not all surgeons place a tape laparoscopically for fear of injury to the IVC and structures within the porta hepatitis. For major laparoscopic resection it is a vital adjunct to reduce haemorrhage. This is as a result of the two dimensional view during laparoscopy and the ergonomics of most laparoscopic instruments make this manipulation blind with the potential of injury to vital structures. Most of the literature on totally laparoscopic liver resection mentions the placement of a tape or vascular sling around the portal triad in the hepato-duodenal ligament in case a Pringle's manoeuvre is necessary during parenchymal division 21 although opinions differ 65 <sup>14</sup> 66 and once experience has been gained for minor resections is often not necessary at all, even in some cirrhotic patients 67 Nonetheless it is our policy to always place a tape around the hepatoduodenal ligament for training purposes.

Some surgeons use a tape around the hepato-duodenal ligament with intra-peritoneal clamping. However, this uses up an extra port as an instrument clamps it on the inside. Moreover laparoscopic instruments are not robust enough to give a satisfactory clamp. The technique of using the Gold finger to facilitate placement of a tape around the hepatoduodenal ligament for the Pringle manoeuvre is an easy, safe and efficient technique. This manoeuvre is performed easily in a few minutes. Although this technique has evolved in a small series we believe this to be a simplified technique that is much easier and safer for laparoscopic liver resection.

#### **6. Parenchymal transection and haemostasis**

#### **6.1 Hilar dissection**

There are many preferences for hilar dissection for major resection e.g. right trisectionetomy, right hepatectomy or left hepatectomy. Intra-hepatic 68 or extra-hepatic 69 (conventional or anterior approach) division of major structures have both been described**.** It is the authors practice to divide all major structures extra-hepatically with the exception of the hepatic bile duct. This is divided last of all, within the liver parenchyma, using a suitable stapling device. Fortunately the use of vascular staplers with roticulators has overcome most of the

Laparoscopic Liver Surgery 99

Fig. 7a. Port position for laporoscopic right hepatectomy with RIF incision

Fig. 7b. Pre-operative marking for hand assisted right hepatectomy

problems relating to the management of major pedicles and vessels, these can be either 45 or 60mm varieties. When the bile duct is divided within the liver there is less risk of damaging the remnant hepatic duct.

Fig. 6. Hepatoduodenal tape positioned lateral to the port for a Pringle manoeuvre

problems relating to the management of major pedicles and vessels, these can be either 45 or 60mm varieties. When the bile duct is divided within the liver there is less risk of damaging

Fig. 6. Hepatoduodenal tape positioned lateral to the port for a Pringle manoeuvre

the remnant hepatic duct.

Fig. 7a. Port position for laporoscopic right hepatectomy with RIF incision

Fig. 7b. Pre-operative marking for hand assisted right hepatectomy

Laparoscopic Liver Surgery 101

or laterally, posterior to the hepatic duct.. The author's preference is to use locking clips such as Weck Clips**.** The portal vein can be approached differently. This can be divided using either a vascular stapler or Weck clips. However, care needs to be taken when achieving vascular control as bleeding at the portal confluence can be difficult to stop. Dividing the caudate process prior to this assists this manoeuvre by allowing more room. Tiny venous tributaries supplying the true caudate lobe and caudate process may also be

The posterior or Glissonian approach described by Launois and Jamieson 70 avoids hilar dissection within the hepatoduodenal ligament. The basic concept is that the major right sided structures such as RHA, RPV and RHD are enveloped in a tough fibrous Glissonian sheath. This is more common for hand assisted procedures 71. Keeping very close, posterior to the sheath a finger is used to encircle the right pedicle. If inflow to the remnant is confirmed the whole pedicle is ligated using a vascular stapling device. There is certainly no

Another technique for right hepatectomy is the anterior approach 68. This avoids the potential hazard of major injury to the RHV with injudicious mobilization of liver and the potential for hepatic ischaemia. Another problem that is avoided is IVC obstruction when the liver is continually rotated to the left. It also has a theoretical advantage of less propagation of tumour cells during the mobilisation phase as the liver is only mobilised once the RHV has been disconnected. The anterior approach involves hilar dissection and inflow control, complete parenchymal transection and division of the RHV only then is liver mobilised. Survival appears to be better for the anterior approach 'open procedures', when

Haemorrhage can be exsanguinating and unpredictable particularly after sustained use of chemotherapy. However it is the constant steady bleeding sustained in the phase of parenchymal transection that contributes most to the overall blood loss. A variety of techniques and surgical adjuncts can be used to aid parenchymal transection. Most experience is with the Cavitational ultrasonic aspirator (CUSA TM), bipolar sealing device Tissue Link, The Habib x4 TM radiofrequency device or the Harmonic Scalpel ultrasonically activated shears (now Harmonic ACE TM). The Harmonic Scalpel ® cuts and coagulates by using ultrasound. Vessels are coapted (tamponaded) and sealed by a protein coagulum. Coagulation occurs by means of protein denaturation when the blade, vibrating at 55,000 Hz, couples with protein, denaturing it to form a coagulum that seals small coapted vessels. The newer Harmonic ACE version appears to be more effective in that it is faster and seals vessels up to 5mm in diameter and seals up to twice systolic pressure. However after a 15 second application heat can be 140 oC 1cm away from the tip causing significant lateral thermal damage away from the tissues being sealed 75. Their powerful compression forces

Newer generation devices include the LOTUS Torsion TM, which uses torsional ultrasound, transfers less energy to adjacent structures. The torsional waveform is thought to be safer as there are only weak frictional forces at the tip of the active blade and reduces' distal drilling' and tissue charring. The Ligasure TM device which utilises low voltage bi-polar radiofrequency energy seals vessels up to 7mm in diameter up to 3 times systolic pressure and monitors changes in tissue impedance and adjusts the energy output accordingly

doubt that the posterior approach is the quickest way for inflow division 72,73.

compared to the conventional mobilisation technique for patients with HCC74.

encountered.

**6.2 Parenchymal transection** 

are directed at the tip of the device as well 76.

Hilar dissection can be tedious and difficult especially when there are extensive adhesions. Major structures can be inadvertently injured and troublesome bleeding can be difficult to deal with for the inexperienced surgeon. Extensive dissection in the hepatoduodenal ligament is never necessary and can lead to devascularisation of the common hepatic duct or remnant hepatic duct. For a right hepatectomy identification of major structures such as the right hepatic artery (RHA), and right portal vein (RPV) can be approached either anteriorly

Hilar dissection can be tedious and difficult especially when there are extensive adhesions. Major structures can be inadvertently injured and troublesome bleeding can be difficult to deal with for the inexperienced surgeon. Extensive dissection in the hepatoduodenal ligament is never necessary and can lead to devascularisation of the common hepatic duct or remnant hepatic duct. For a right hepatectomy identification of major structures such as the right hepatic artery (RHA), and right portal vein (RPV) can be approached either anteriorly

Fig. 8. Hand assisted liver resection

or laterally, posterior to the hepatic duct.. The author's preference is to use locking clips such as Weck Clips**.** The portal vein can be approached differently. This can be divided using either a vascular stapler or Weck clips. However, care needs to be taken when achieving vascular control as bleeding at the portal confluence can be difficult to stop. Dividing the caudate process prior to this assists this manoeuvre by allowing more room. Tiny venous tributaries supplying the true caudate lobe and caudate process may also be encountered.

The posterior or Glissonian approach described by Launois and Jamieson 70 avoids hilar dissection within the hepatoduodenal ligament. The basic concept is that the major right sided structures such as RHA, RPV and RHD are enveloped in a tough fibrous Glissonian sheath. This is more common for hand assisted procedures 71. Keeping very close, posterior to the sheath a finger is used to encircle the right pedicle. If inflow to the remnant is confirmed the whole pedicle is ligated using a vascular stapling device. There is certainly no doubt that the posterior approach is the quickest way for inflow division 72,73.

Another technique for right hepatectomy is the anterior approach 68. This avoids the potential hazard of major injury to the RHV with injudicious mobilization of liver and the potential for hepatic ischaemia. Another problem that is avoided is IVC obstruction when the liver is continually rotated to the left. It also has a theoretical advantage of less propagation of tumour cells during the mobilisation phase as the liver is only mobilised once the RHV has been disconnected. The anterior approach involves hilar dissection and inflow control, complete parenchymal transection and division of the RHV only then is liver mobilised. Survival appears to be better for the anterior approach 'open procedures', when compared to the conventional mobilisation technique for patients with HCC74.

#### **6.2 Parenchymal transection**

Haemorrhage can be exsanguinating and unpredictable particularly after sustained use of chemotherapy. However it is the constant steady bleeding sustained in the phase of parenchymal transection that contributes most to the overall blood loss. A variety of techniques and surgical adjuncts can be used to aid parenchymal transection. Most experience is with the Cavitational ultrasonic aspirator (CUSA TM), bipolar sealing device Tissue Link, The Habib x4 TM radiofrequency device or the Harmonic Scalpel ultrasonically activated shears (now Harmonic ACE TM). The Harmonic Scalpel ® cuts and coagulates by using ultrasound. Vessels are coapted (tamponaded) and sealed by a protein coagulum. Coagulation occurs by means of protein denaturation when the blade, vibrating at 55,000 Hz, couples with protein, denaturing it to form a coagulum that seals small coapted vessels. The newer Harmonic ACE version appears to be more effective in that it is faster and seals vessels up to 5mm in diameter and seals up to twice systolic pressure. However after a 15 second application heat can be 140 oC 1cm away from the tip causing significant lateral thermal damage away from the tissues being sealed 75. Their powerful compression forces are directed at the tip of the device as well 76.

Newer generation devices include the LOTUS Torsion TM, which uses torsional ultrasound, transfers less energy to adjacent structures. The torsional waveform is thought to be safer as there are only weak frictional forces at the tip of the active blade and reduces' distal drilling' and tissue charring. The Ligasure TM device which utilises low voltage bi-polar radiofrequency energy seals vessels up to 7mm in diameter up to 3 times systolic pressure and monitors changes in tissue impedance and adjusts the energy output accordingly

Laparoscopic Liver Surgery 103

non randomized study comparing 120 patients. There does not appear to be any difference in overall 5 year survival in those having either LLR or open resection in terms of disease free survival 85. Most studies report no difference in rates of R0 resection and no increased risk of positive margins after LLR as reviewed elsewhere 10. Although a recent meta-analysis suggests the risk of an R0 resection (<1cm) is twice as high after LLR than for open resection86. Indeed R1 resection rates of up to 43% have been reported 18 and non segmental

For left lateral resections and segmental resections blood loss and transfusion requirements have improved significantly through eras and now most involved in the field would suggest that with more minor resections blood loss is less when compared to open surgery 22,86,4. However this is perhaps not the case for major resection and bleeding can be catastrophic and problematic when it is from a major tributary such as the RHV or venous confluence 19 and this is why some prefer the safety of a hand port when they approach the RHV during

The main advantage of LLR are the reported benefits which apply to all minimally invasive procedures. These include reduced post-operative pain relief, reduced hospital stay, less morbidity and mortality. Certainly a recent meta-analysis suggests patients have less blood loss, shorter post-operative stay and a quicker return to activities of daily living for left lateral resection or metastectomy7 6,86,4,10. Without randomized studies this will be difficult to confirm as laparoscopic enthusiasts may have a tendency to send patients home earlier than usual practise and may vary between centres. Generally the disadvantage of higher costs is

An important consideration certainly in Europe is the recent introduction of the European Working Time Directive (EWTD) which has threatened surgical training by a reduction in working hours and doctor/patient contact. Surgical trainees are therefore not exposed to as many opportunities to learn new or advanced techniques in laparoscopic surgery. There is no doubt that laparoscopic training programs need to be developed to keep pace with the introduction of new techniques and to allow surgical trainees adequate exposure and

A growth area in this field has been the introduction of various structured programs, virtual reality systems and laparoscopic simulators which have been reviewed in detail elsewhere. <sup>91</sup> 92. Alternative approaches to facilitate training has been the use of porcine or canine simulators 93 . Nevertheless these can be expensive to implement and can be problematic for licensing. An alternative approach which has not been widely reported is the use of a

The Newcastle Surgical Training Centre (NSTC) based at the Freeman Hospital opened in September 2007 **(Figure 9).** The laparoscopic training facility provides a specialist forum for the development of advanced laparoscopic skills and is part of the national drive to improve the delivery of near-patient technology. It is a unique, state of the art facility providing advanced cadaveric education which enables surgeons to gain cadaveric training in a unique and extremely high specification "wet lab" environment on fresh frozen cadavers. This centre is one of the very first anatomical examination units of its kind in the UK to carry a formal license from the Human Tissue Authority (HTA). The Human Tissue Act 2004

resections may have the highest risk 87.

right hepatectomy.

offset by the shorter stay 88,7,89,90.

applies to all surgical specialities.

Cadaver Lab Training Facility 94.

**8. Training in laparosopic liver surgery** 

causing less collateral tissue damage to within 1.5mm of the grasping jaws 77. Tissuelink (Aquamantys TM) works using transcollation (transforming collagen) technology sealing small biliary radicals, no charringand gives a bloodless operating field. This device delivers radiofrequency energy and saline simultaneously to achieve temperatures of 100oC 78. The major disadvantage is that is can be slower and is more expensive. A cheap and effective time honoured method is bipolar diathermy giving good haemostasis on the liver parenchyma using a power of up to 80 watts. There have been concerns regarding Argon Beam Coagulation (ABC) and gas embolism79 because of the stream of argon gas when the instrument is activated particularly on the liver bed when there are large open vessels. It is strongly advisable not to use ABC in this situation.

There are no well designed controlled studies comparing different haemostatic techniques during LLR but these have been reviewed in detail elsewhere 80 81. Attention to detail regarding securing the bile ducts, identifying and ligating the medium and larger vascular structures are important in ensuring minimal blood loss, bile leaks and achieving an oncologically sound surgical procedure. To realize this, various techniques might be needed at different stages of the operation and therefore a working knowledge of all available techniques is useful.
