Laparoscopic liver resections: initial experience in Greece

Abstract

Background: Laparoscopic liver resections (LLR) are currently acknowledged as safe and efficient procedures in the treatment of a plethora of benign and malignant diseases when performed by experienced surgeons. The aim of our study was to report our initial institutional experience with LLRs from one certified hepatobiliary surgeon. Methods: Patients undergoing LLR by one senior hepatobiliary surgeon during the period 01/2012-07/2016 were prospectively sampled and retrospectively analyzed for the purposes of this study. Results: Thirty-seven out of 151 patients (25%) operated for liver tumors underwent LLR. The patient median age was 64 years; median BMI and Charlson comorbidity index were 27.3kg/m2 and 6.5, respectively. Patients underwent resections for benign (n=19) or malignant (n=18) lesions. Median total operating time was 115 minutes. Blood transfusion was needed in 8 patients. Six patients (16%) presented postoperative complications none of which necessitated reoperation. None of the patients was admitted to the intensive care unit postoperatively whereas the median hospital stay was 4 days. Tumor-free resection margin was documented in all primary or secondary oncologic cases. Conclusion: Careful patient selection and compliance with the international recommendations are the keys for the successful introduction and evolution of a LLR-program.