Future Liver Remnant Ratio Research Articles

Clinical application of transarterial chemoembolization combined with terminal branches portal vein embolization in planned hepatectomy

This study aimed to investigate the clinical efficacy of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in conjunction with terminal branches portal vein embolization (TBPVE) in the context of planned hepatectomy. A cohort of five patients afflicted by primary hepatocellular carcinoma who were deemed unsuitable candidates for primary surgical resection was gathered from August 2019 to December 2021. Following the application of TACE in combination with TBPVE as a therapeutic intervention, we observed postoperative general reactions, alterations in tumor biomarkers, hyperplasia of future liver remnant (FLR), and subsequent surgical resection. All patients successfully underwent the combined TACE and TBPVE procedure, achieving a technical success rate of 100%. One week after TACE, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels decreased from 38.52±49.21 to 25.27±37.94 μg/L, and Protein Induced by Vitamin K Absence or Antagonist (PIVKA) levels decreased from 1689.30±1663.83 to 219.03±228.10 μg/L. Two weeks post-TBPVE, FLR exhibited an increment from 350.80±41.17 to 476.00±57.91 mL. The ratio of FLR to standard liver volume (SLV) increased from 30.94%±3.63% to 42.03%±5.62%. The combined application of TACE and TBPVE not only effectively manages tumor progression but also augments the FLR, thereby affording patients with a limited future liver remnant an opportunity for surgical resection of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Clinical application of transarterial chemoembolization combined with terminal branches portal vein embolization in planned hepatectomy

This study aimed to investigate the clinical efficacy of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in conjunction with terminal branches portal vein embolization (TBPVE) in the context of planned hepatectomy. A cohort of five patients afflicted by primary hepatocellular carcinoma who were deemed unsuitable candidates for primary surgical resection was gathered from August 2019 to December 2021. Following the application of TACE in combination with TBPVE as a therapeutic intervention, we observed postoperative general reactions, alterations in tumor biomarkers, hyperplasia of future liver remnant (FLR), and subsequent surgical resection. All patients successfully underwent the combined TACE and TBPVE procedure, achieving a technical success rate of 100%. One week after TACE, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels decreased from 38.52±49.21 to 25.27±37.94 μg/L, and Protein Induced by Vitamin K Absence or Antagonist (PIVKA) levels decreased from 1689.30±1663.83 to 219.03±228.10 μg/L. Two weeks post-TBPVE, FLR exhibited an increment from 350.80±41.17 to 476.00±57.91 mL. The ratio of FLR to standard liver volume (SLV) increased from 30.94%±3.63% to 42.03%±5.62%. The combined application of TACE and TBPVE not only effectively manages tumor progression but also augments the FLR, thereby affording patients with a limited future liver remnant an opportunity for surgical resection of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Predicting symptomatic post-hepatectomy liver failure in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: development and validation of a preoperative nomogram.

To develop and validate a nomogram based on liver stiffness (LS) for predicting symptomatic post-hepatectomy (PHLF) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A total of 266 patients with HCC were enrolled prospectively from three tertiary referral hospitals from August 2018 to April 2021. All patients underwent preoperative laboratory examination to obtain parameters of liver function. Two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) was performed to measure LS. Three-dimensional virtual resection obtained the different volumes including future liver remnant (FLR). A nomogram was developed by using logistic regression and determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and calibration curve analysis, which was validated internally and externally. A nomogram was constructed with the following variables: FLR ratio (FLR of total liver volume), LS greater than 9.5kPa, Child-Pugh grade, and the presence of clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH). This nomogram enabled differentiation of symptomatic PHLF in the derivation cohort (area under curve [AUC], 0.915), internal fivefold cross-validation (mean AUC, 0.918), internal validation cohort (AUC, 0.876) and external validation cohort (AUC, 0.845). The nomogram also showed good calibration in the derivation, internal validation, and external validation cohorts (Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test, p = 0.641, p = 0.06, and p = 0.127, respectively). Accordingly, the safe limit of the FLR ratio was stratified using the nomogram. An elevated level of LS was associated with the occurrence of symptomatic PHLF in HCC. A preoperative nomogram integrating LS, clinical and volumetric features was useful in predicting postoperative outcomes in patients with HCC, which might help surgeons in the management of HCC resection. A serial of the safe limit of the future liver remnant was proposed by a preoperative nomogram for hepatocellular carcinoma, which might help surgeons in 'how much remnant is enough in liver resection'. • An elevated liver stiffness with the best cutoff value of 9.5kPa was associated with the occurrence of symptomatic post-hepatectomy liver failure in hepatocellular carcinoma. • A nomogram based on both quality (Child-Pugh grade, liver stiffness, and portal hypertension) and quantity of future liver remnant was developed to predict symptomatic post-hepatectomy liver failure for HCC, which enabled good discrimination and calibration in both derivation and validation cohorts. • The safe limit of future liver remnant volume was stratified using the proposed nomogram, which might help surgeons in the management of HCC resection.

Future liver remnant volume is associated with postoperative fentanyl consumption following open donor hepatectomy: a retrospective multivariate analysis.

Liver resection has a risk of postoperative hepatic dysfunction, including drug metabolism. Since fentanyl is primarily metabolized in the liver, liver resection requires exercising caution against fentanyl overdose in postoperative analgesia. The rationale for dose adjustment of fentanyl in the preoperative prescription for patients undergoing liver resection remains unclear. We examined whether postoperative fentanyl consumption is associated with the future liver remnant after liver resection and investigated factors influencing fentanyl consumption. In this retrospective study, 89 living liver donors undergoing open liver resection received intravenous patient-controlled analgesia with fentanyl 2mg with thoracic epidural analgesia. The primary outcome was postoperative hourly consumption of intravenous patient-controlled analgesia with fentanyl. Future liver remnant volume (ml) and the ratio of future liver remnant volume to whole liver volume (%) were estimated by computed tomography volumetry and compared to determine which correlated more strongly with fentanyl hourly consumption. Multivariable analysis identified independent factors affecting fentanyl consumption, with adjustments for patient characteristics and intravenous patient-controlled analgesia setting. Future liver remnant volume (ml) was significantly correlated more strongly than the ratio of future liver remnant (%) with postoperative fentanyl consumption (r = 0.53 vs. 0.36, p < 0.001). Larger future liver remnant volume (β = 0.25, p = 0.006) and age < 45years (β = 0.24, p = 0.009) were independently associated with higher fentanyl consumption, while sex and weight were not. Future liver remnant volume was significantly associated with postoperative fentanyl consumption. Smaller remnant liver volume and older age (≥ 45years) were independent factors reducing postoperative fentanyl consumption in patients undergoing open donor hepatectomy.

Increased future liver function after modified associating liver partition and portal vein ligation/embolization for staged hepatectomy.

BackgroundThe increasing ratio of functional future liver remnant (functional %FLR) after modified associating liver partition and portal vein ligation/embolization for staged hepatectomy (modified-ALPPS) compared with portal vein embolization (PVE) has not been comprehensively evaluated.PurposeTo compare the increasing ratio of functional %FLR between modified-ALPPS and PVE via technetium-99 m-galactosyl human serum albumin single-photon emission computed tomography (99mTc-GSA SPECT/CT) fusion imaging.Material and MethodsSeven and six patients underwent modified-ALPPS (modified-ALPPS group) and PVE (PVE group) from 2015 to 2019. The functional %FLR on 99 mTc-GSA SPECT/CT fusion imaging was assessed before and 1 week (modified-ALPPS group) and 3 weeks (PVE group) after each procedure. The increasing ratio of functional %FLR (functional %FLR ratio) was calculated and compared between the two groups. Moreover, the hypertrophy ratio of future liver remnant volume (FLRV ratio) and atrophy ratio of embolized liver volume (.ELV ratio) were evaluated.ResultsThe mean functional %FLR ratios of the modified-ALPPS group (1.47 ± 0.15) and the PVE group (1.49 ± 0.20) were comparable (p > .05). The median FLRV ratio of modified-ALPPS group (1.48) was higher than that of the PVE group (1.16), the median ELV ratio of the PVE group (0.81) was lower than that of the modified-ALPPS group (0.94), and the results significantly differed between the two groups (p < .05).ConclusionThe increasing ratio of functional %FLR was comparable between modified-ALPPS and PVE. Compared with PVE, ALPPS was associated with a higher hypertrophy rate of the remnant liver but a lower atrophy rate of the embolized liver.

Portal vein embolization with absolute ethanol to induce hypertrophy of the future liver remnant

BackgroundPreoperative portal vein embolization (PVE) is widely used prior to major liver resection to reduce the risk of post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF). We evaluated the efficacy and safety of PVE using absolute ethanol.MethodsConsecutive patients undergoing preoperative PVE between February 2003 and February 2020 at a high-volume tertiary institution were retrospectively reviewed. Hypertrophy of the future liver remnant (FLR) was determined by comparing volumetric data using semi-automated software on computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging before and after PVE. Efficacy of absolute ethanol was evaluated by the percentage increase in the FLR volume and the ratio of the FLR to the total liver volume (TLV). Technical success and complications following PVE were evaluated. Feasibility of hepatectomy following PVE and the incidence of PHLF were determined.ResultsSixty-two patients underwent preoperative PVE using absolute ethanol. The technical success rate was 95.2%. Median time interval between PVE and follow-up imaging was 34 days (range 6–144 days). The mean increase in FLR volume and ratio of the FLR to TLV were 43.6 ± 34.4% and 12.3 ± 7.7% respectively. Major adverse events occurred in 3 cases (4.8%) and did not preclude consideration of surgery. Forty-two patients (67.8%) proceeded to surgery for intended hepatectomy of which 36 patients (58.1%) underwent liver resection. Major post-operative complications occurred in 4 patients (11.1%) and there were no cases of PHLF.ConclusionPreoperative PVE with absolute ethanol is effective and safe in inducing hypertrophy of the FLR before partial hepatectomy to prevent PHLF.

Portal vein embolization via the ipsilateral percutaneous transhepatic approach versus laparotomic transileocecal approach: complications, profile and changes in future liver remnant volume.

Major liver resection is an effective treatment option for patients with liver malignancy. The future liver remnant (FLR) volume and complications after portal vein embolization (PVE) were compared between the ipsilateral right portal vein (PTPE) and transileocolic (TIPE) approaches. A total of 42 patients (TIPE, n = 22; PTPE, n = 20) underwent right lobectomy after PVE. CT and hepatobiliary scintigraphy were repeated before and after PVE. The blood examination findings and the FLR values (FLRCT: calculated from CT, %FLRCT: FLRCT ratio, %FLRSPECT: FLR ratio using single photon emission CT, FLRCT/BS: FLRCT to body surface ratio) were compared between two approach sites. The complications and mortality were also analyzed after PVE and major right hepatectomy. There were no significant differences in the patient characteristics, blood examination findings or FLR values between two groups. Adequate liver regeneration was observed without significant differences between PTPE and TIPE (increased ratio of FLRCT: 8.7% vs 19.2%, p = 0.15 [25-75 percentile: 17.1-60.4], %FLRCT: 11.2% vs 8.3%, p = 0.25 [6.3-13.3], %FLRSPECT: 15.4% vs 19.2%, p = 0.09 [16.0-22.4], FLRCT/BS: 33.6% vs 47.1%, p = 0.19 [17.2-60.4], respectively), but TIPE required a significantly longer procedure time than PTPE [181.4 min vs 108.7 min, p < 0.01 (103.3-193.5)]. However, one patient was converted to TIPE due to bleeding during PTPE. After right lobectomy, portal vein stenosis or thrombosis was noted in three patients [two with TIPE (9.1%) and one with PTPE (5%)] and three TIPE patients died within 90 days (13.6%) after right hepatectomy. FLR volume significantly increased after PVE, regardless of the approach sites; however, PTPE is a useful technique with a shorter procedure time.

Percutaneous liver venous deprivation: outcomes in heavily pretreated metastatic colorectal cancer patients.

To evaluate liver venous deprivation (LVD) outcomes in patients with colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) heavily pretreated with systemic and hepatic arterial infusion pump (HAIP) chemotherapies that had an anticipated insufficient future liver remnant (FLR) hypertrophy after portal vein embolization (PVE). PVE was performed with liquid embolics using a transsplenic or ipsilateral transhepatic approach. Simultaneously and via a trans-jugular approach, the right hepatic vein was embolized with vascular plugs. Liver volumetry was assessed on computed tomography before and 3-6 weeks after LVD. Twelve consecutive CRLM patients that underwent LVD before right hepatectomy or trisectionectomy were included, all previously treated with systemic chemotherapy for a mean of 11.9 months. Six patients had additional HAIP. After embolization, FLR ratio increased from 28.7%±5.9 to 42.2%±9.0 (P<0.01). Mean kinetic growth rate (KGR) was 3.56%/week±2.3, with a degree of hypertrophy (DH) of 13.8%±7.1. In the HAIP subgroup, mean KGR and DH were respectively 3.58%/week±2.8 and 14.3%±8.7. No severe complications occurred. Ten patients reached surgery after 39 days±7.5. In heavily pretreated patients, LVD safely stimulated a rapid and effective FLR hypertrophy, with a resultant high rate of resection.

Limited Excised Functional Liver Tissue in Hepatectomy for Large Hepatic Tumors Proved by a Three-Dimensional Reconstruction Technique

Three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction techniques have been widely used in the preoperative evaluation of hepatectomy. Here we used a 3D reconstruction technique to estimate the remnant liver volume and clarify a clinical speculation that limited functional liver tissue would be excised in hepatectomy for large hepatic tumors. Hepatectomy simulation by IQQA-Liver software was applied to 108 patients of hemihepatectomy divided into two groups (tumor diameter ≥ 10 cm vs.<10 cm). Liver volume (LV), standard liver volume (SLV), tumor volume (TV), functional liver volume (FLV), excised liver volume (ELV), excised functional liver volume (EFLV) and residual liver volume (RLV) were measured. Then we compared the rate of total liver resection (ELV/LV), the rate of functional liver resection (EFLV/FLV), and the relative rate of future liver remnant (RLV/FLV and RLV/SLV) between the two groups. The ELV calculated by the 3D reconstruction procedure were highly consistent with the actual liver excised volume (r=0.994, p<0.001), showing the accuracy of the simulation. Significantly smaller EFLV/FLV was seen in patients with a tumor diameter ≥ 10 cm than in patients with a tumor diameter<10 cm (p<0.01), in both the right and left hemihepatectomy subgroup. In contrast, significantly larger RLV/FLV was seen (p<0.01), and there was no difference of the RLV/SLV (p>0.05). Twenty-five patients had RLV/LV<30%, a recognized ratio of future liver remnant for safe hepatectomy. However, only one patient had RLV/SLV<30%. 97.2% of the patients had RLV/FLV>40%, and 98.1% had RLV/SLV>40%, accounting for the overwhelming majority of all patients. There was no hepatic failure or death within 30 days of surgery. In summary, it is better to use a 3D reconstruction method for preoperative safety assessment of liver resection for large hepatic tumors, through the hepatectomy simulation and volume calculation. In the same range of anatomical hepatectomy, a larger tumor mass meant less excised functional liver volume and more remnant liver volume. Our results indicated that neither ELV nor RLV/LV, but RLV/SLV was the better determinant of safety of hepatectomy.

Predictive value of combined computed tomography volumetry and magnetic resonance elastography for major complications after liver resection.

To retrospectively compare the predictive value of computed tomography volumetry (CTV), magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) of the liver, and their combination for major complications after liver resection. We enrolled 108 consecutive patients who underwent anatomical liver resection for liver tumors and preoperative contrast-enhanced CT and MRE. The future liver remnant (FLR) ratio was calculated by CTV, while the liver stiffness measurement (LSM) was obtained by MRE. FLR ratio alone, LSM alone, and combined FLR ratio and LSM were evaluated to predict major complications (Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ IIIa). Univariate and multivariate analyses of hepatic biochemical parameters and imaging data were performed to identify predictors of major complications. Receiver operating characteristic analyses of FLR ratio, LSM, and their combination were performed, and the sensitivity and specificity were calculated. Twenty-two (20.4%) of the 108 patients experienced major complications. According to multiple regression analysis, the FLR ratio (odds ratio [OR] 0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.91-0.99, p = 0.040) and LSM (OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.01-2.94, p = 0.047) were independent predictors of major complications. The combined FLR ratio and LSM were predictive of major complications, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.818, sensitivity of 68.2%, and specificity of 84.9%. The AUC and specificity for combined FLR ratio and LSM were larger than those for FLR ratio (AUC: 0.711, specificity: 80.2%) and LSM (AUC: 0.793, specificity: 80.2%). Combined CTV and MRE analysis can improve the AUC and specificity for predicting major complications after anatomical liver resection.

Insufficient future liver remnant and preoperative cholangitis predict perioperative outcome in perihilar cholangiocarcinoma

BackgroundMajor liver resection has evolved as the mainstay of treatment for patients with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (pCCA). Here we assessed the suitability of preoperative future liver remnant (FLR) measurement to predict perioperative complications, since surgical morbidity and mortality are high compared to other malignancies. MethodsBetween 2011 and 2016, 91 patients with pCCA underwent surgery in curative intent at our institution. The associations of surgical complications with FLR and clinico-pathological characteristics were assessed using logistic regression analyses. Different methods of FLR assessment, the calculated-FLR (cFLR; ratio of FLR to total liver volume), standardized FLR (sFLR; ratio of FLR to liver volume estimated by body surface area) and FLR to bodyweight ratio (FLR/BW) were tested for validity. ResultsMultivariable analysis identified preoperative cholangitis (Exp(B) = 0.236; p = 0.030) as the single significant predictor of postoperative mortality and cFLR (Exp(B) = 0.009, p = 0.004) as the single significant predictor of major postoperative morbidity (Clavien-Dindo ≥ 3b). Based on these findings we designed a futility criterion (cFLR<40% OR preoperative cholangitis) predicting in-house mortality. ConclusionsIn patients with pCCA, the preoperative FLR<40% as well as preoperative cholangitis are two risk factors to independently predict perioperative morbidity and mortality. The cFLR should be the preferred method of liver volumetry.

Changes of Endocan and its effect on hepatic stem cells during the rapid proliferation process of residual liver after ALPPS procedure.

To establish a stable animal model of associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS), as well as to explore whether Endocan and HGF/c-Met signalling pathway participate in the regeneration of residual liver through hepatic stem cells after ALPPS procedure. C57BL/6J male mice weighing 18-22 g were used in this study. The liver regeneration index was expressed as the ratio of Future Liver Remnant (FLR)/Body weight (BW) × 100%. Expression of hepatic stem cell marker CK19 was assessed by immunohistochemical method. Serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Endocan were detected by ELISA. VEGF, Endocan and c-Met contents in residual liver were observed by Western blot analysis. The expression levels of Endocan and HGF/c-Met pathway-related genes were evaluated by qRT-PCR. Compared with the portal vein ligation (PVL) group and sham group, the ALPPS group had more CK19 positive cells and a higher liver regeneration index (P < .05). The serum levels of VEGF in the ALPPS group were increased significantly (P < .05) from the first day and decreased from the second day after surgery, and maintained consistently higher than that of the sham group (P < .05). Western blot showed that the expressions of VEGF and Endocan in ALPPS group were significantly higher than those in both sham and PVL groups at different time points. The Endocan plays a role in the rapid regeneration of residual liver after ALPPS, likely through the interaction with the HGF/c-Met pathway to affect the hepatic stem cell population. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY: Our animal study provides valuable insights on the effect of Endocan in the process of rapid regeneration of residual liver after ALPPS, which would lead to the possible expansion of clinical research on ALPPS surgery and further studies on its molecular underpinning during liver regeneration.

A comparative study on preoperative portal vein embolization using tris-acryl gelatin microspheres versus coils

Objective To compare preoperative portal vein embolization (PVE) using tris-acryl gelatin microspheres (TAGM) versus coils. Methods From March 2016 to June 2018, 21 consecutive patients with a future liver remnant (FLR) ratio of less than 45% before planned major hepatectomy for malignant or benign liver diseases were enrolled from the First Department of Biliary Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital into this study. The patients were divided to receive portal vein embolization (PVE) using TAGM distally and coils proximally (the TC group) and PVE using multiple coils (the CC group). Post-PVE complications, liver function, routine blood tests; FLR hyperplasia, types of liver resection, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative complications were compared between the two groups. Results Eight patients were included in the TC group. There were 4 males and 4 females, with a mean age of (55.3±7.7) years. Of 13 patients included into the CC group, there were 11 males and 2 females, with a mean age of (52.6±11.3) years. There were no significant differences in sex, age, types of hepatic diseases, volume of FLR, ratio of FLR, ratio of standard FLR, types of surgery, operation duration, blood loss, major complications, and liver failure rates between the two groups. All patients in the two groups had successful PVE. The TC group developed effective growth of volume of FLR with one patient who failed to undergo surgery because of tumor progression. In the CC group, four patients failed to undergo liver resection: one patient developed thrombosis of the left branch and main trunk of portal vein; tumor progression occurred in one patient and two patients had insufficient FLR growth. Compared with the CC group, the TC group had a significantly higher volume of FLR hyperplasia [(9.0±2.8) % vs. (5.2±3.8) %, P 0.05], a greater but insignificant increase in percentage of proliferation [(33.6±20.1) % vs. (20.9±15.1) %, P>0.05]. Conclusions This study showed that PVE with TAGM plus coils is safe and effective. It induced a better degree of hypertrophy of FLR compared to PVE using multiple coils. Key words: Liver diseases; Portal vein embolization; Tris-acryl gelatin microsphere; Coils; Major hepatectomy

Portal Vein Embolization with PVA and Coils before Major Hepatectomy: Single-Center Retrospective Analysis in Sixty-Four Patients.

Objectives Portal vein embolization (PVE) stimulates hypertrophy of the future liver remnant (FLR) and improves the safety of extended hepatectomy. This study evaluated the efficacy of PVE, performed with PVA and coils, in relation to its effect on FLR volume and ratio. Secondary endpoints were the assessment of PVE complications, accomplishment of liver surgery, and patient outcome after hepatectomy. Materials and Methods All patients who underwent PVE before planned major hepatectomy between 2013 and 2017 were retrospectively analyzed, comprising a total of 64 patients. Baseline patient clinical characteristics, imaging records, liver volumetric changes, complications, and outcomes were analyzed. Results There were 45 men and 19 women with a mean age of 64 years. Colorectal liver metastasis was the most frequent liver tumor. The majority of patients (n = 53) had a right PVE. FLR increased from a mean value of 484 ml ± 242 to 654 ml ± 287 (p < 0.001) after PVE. Two major complications were experienced after PVE: 1 case of left hepatic artery branch laceration and 1 case of hemoperitoneum and hemothorax. A total of 44 (69%) patients underwent liver surgery. Twenty-one patients were not taken to surgery due to disease progression (n = 18), liver insufficiency (n = 1), and insufficient FLR volume (n = 1), and one patient declined surgery (n = 1). Conclusions PVE with PVA and coils was accomplished safely and promoted a high FLR hypertrophy yield, enabling most of our patients to be submitted to the potentially curative treatment of liver tumor resection.

Percutaneous Portal Vein Embolization Using a Simplified Sheathless 18-Gauge Trocar Needle Approach: Review of Efficacy and Safety

PurposePortal vein (PV) embolization (PVE) is traditionally performed via a PV sheath with selective embolization of PV branches. Here, the efficacy and safety of PVE with the use of only an 18-gauge needle is reported. Materials and MethodsConsecutive patients who underwent PVE from 2009 through 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Forty-five patients (mean age, 60 y ± 7.6; 38 men) underwent 45 PVE procedures. Hepatocellular carcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma, and metastases accounted for 26 (58%), 13 (29%), and 6 (13%) patients, respectively. PVE was performed by puncturing a branch of right PV with an 18-gauge needle under US guidance. Via the same needle, direct portography was performed, followed by PVE with an N-butyl cyanoacrylate/Lipiodol mixture. Percentage increase of future liver remnant (FLR) volume and increase in ratio of FLR to total liver volume were estimated as measures of efficacy. Complications were reported according to Society of Interventional Radiology classification. Fluoroscopy time, procedure time, and dose–area product (DAP) were recorded. ResultsTechnical success rate was 100%. The median DAP, fluoroscopy time, and procedure time were 74,387 mGy·cm2 (IQR, 90,349 mGy·cm2), 3.5 min (IQR, 2.10 min), and 24 min (IQR, 10.5 min). Among the 23 patients with complete CT volumetry data, mean increase in the ratio of FLR to total liver volume and percentage increase of FLR volume were 12.5% ± 7.7 and 50% ± 33, respectively. There were 3 minor complications (asymptomatic nonocclusive emboli in FLR) and 3 major complications (1 hepatic vein emboli, 1 subphrenic collection, and 1 hepatic infarct). ConclusionsPVE via a sheathless 18-gauge needle approach is feasible, with satisfactory FLR hypertrophy.

Risk prediction of post-hepatectomy liver failure in patients with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma.

In most patients with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHCC), major hepatectomy and extrahepatic bile duct resection are needed for surgical radicality, and a high risk of hepatic insufficiency exists. This study aims to develop a prediction model for post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) in patients with PHCC. A total of 143 patients who underwent major liver resection and extrahepatic bile duct resection for PHCC between October 2001 and December 2013 were included. Clinically relevant PHLF was defined as liver failure corresponding to grade B or C of the International Study Group of Liver Surgery criteria. Multivariate logistic regression was used to develop the PHLF risk model. Model performance was evaluated internally using the area under the curve analysis (discrimination) after 1000 bootstrap resampling and the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test (calibration). Post-hepatectomy liver failure occurred in 43.4% of patients (n=62). In multivariate analysis, PHLF was significantly associated with future liver remnant ratio (odds ratio [OR] per 10%=0.68, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.51-0.88), intraoperative blood loss (OR per 1L=1.82, 95% CI 1.11-3.17), and preoperative prothrombin time>1.20 (OR=3.22, 95% CI 1.15-9.97). The PHLF risk score model showed good discrimination (area under the curve=0.708, 95% CI 0.623-0.793) and calibration (P=0.227). The risk model proposed in this study accurately predicted PHLF in patients with PHCC. This offers surgeons a practical guide to quantitative risk assessment of hepatic insufficiency and aids decision-making in surgical treatment and perioperative management.

Portal Vein Embolization: History and Current Indications

Portal vein embolization (PVE) was first adapted for patients undergoing major hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In these patients, PVE caused hypertrophy of the unaffected liver and increased the volumetric ratio of future liver remnant (FLR) to total liver volume. ^99mTechnetium-galactosyl human serum albumin (^99mTc-GSA) scintigraphy revealed that PVE also induced a shift in hepatic function from the embolized part to the nonembolized part of the liver. Various hepatobiliary malignancies can be treated using PVE, and PVE is increasingly being used to expand the indication for major hepatectomy in patients with initially insufficient FLR volume or function. The indication for PVE is determined by the underlying liver function and standardized FLR volume. In patients with chronic hepatitis, the histologic inflammatory activity was negatively correlated with the increase in FLR volume, and PVE is not suitable for patients with high serum 7s collagen concentrations (>8 ng/ml). This finding may predict the efficacy of PVE. PVE before major hepatectomy can act as a tolerance test to avoid postoperative hepatic failure. PVE also improved long-term survival after liver resection in patients with HCC. Presently, PVE is a safe and useful treatment for patients undergoing major hepatectomy.

Can contrast-enhanced MRI with gadoxetic acid predict liver failure and other complications after major hepatic resection?

To determine whether a combination of clinical factors, the future liver remnant (FLR) ratio, and hepatic uptake of gadoxetic acid can be used to predict post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) and other major complications (OMC). Sixty-five consecutive patients who underwent pre-hepatectomy gadoxetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) between October 2010 and December 2013 were included. The relative liver enhancement (RLE) of gadoxetic acid was calculated from regions of interest on MRI, and FLR ratios were obtained from computed tomography (CT). PHLF and OMC were defined by the International Study Group of Liver Surgery criteria and Clavien-Dindo grade of ≥3, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression modelling was performed to identify predictors of PHLF and OMC, including RLE, FLR ratio, age, sex, chemotherapy history, intra-operative blood loss, and intra-operative transfusion. Nine patients experienced PHLF and another nine patients experienced OMC. RLE was comparable to the FLR ratio in predicting PHLF (areas under the receiver operating characteristic [AUROC] curves, 0.665 and 0.705), but performed poorly in predicting OMCs (AUROCs, 0.556 and 0.702). Combining all clinical and imaging parameters as predictors yielded the best performing predictive models (AUROCs, 0.875 and 0.742 for PHLF and OMC, respectively). A model based on clinical parameters, the FLR ratio, and RLE of gadoxetic acid may improve pre-hepatectomy risk assessment.

Measured Versus Estimated Total Liver Volume to Preoperatively Assess the Adequacy of Future Liver Remnant

OBJECTIVES To determine which method of liver volumetry is more accurate in predicting a safe resection. BACKGROUND Before major or extended hepatectomy, assessment of the future liver remnant (FLR) is crucial to reduce the risk of postoperative hepatic insufficiency. The FLR volume is usually expressed as the ratio of FLR to nontumorous total liver volume (TLV), which can be measured directly by computed tomography (mTLV) or estimated (eTLV) on the basis of correlation existing with the body surface area. To date, these 2 methods have never been compared. METHODS All consecutive, noncirrhotic patients who underwent resection of 3 or more liver segments between April 2000 and April 2012 and for whom (i) preoperative computed tomographic scans and (ii) body surface area were available entered the study. The mTLV (calculated as TLV - tumor volume) was compared with the eTLV (calculated as -794.41 + 1267.28 × body surface area) using volumetric data (cm) and clinical outcome measures (specifically, hepatic insufficiency and 90-day mortality). Definition of hepatic insufficiency was peak postoperative serum total bilirubin level of more than 7 mg/dL or, in jaundiced patients, an increasing bilirubin level on day 5 or thereafter. RESULTS Two-hundred forty-three patients who had undergone major (n = 135) or extended (n = 108) hepatectomies met the inclusion criteria. Twenty-eight patients (11.5%) developed hepatic insufficiency, whereas 7 patients (2.9%) died postoperatively. Compared with the eTLV, the mTLV underestimated the liver volume in 60.1% of the patients (P < 0.01). Forty-seven and 73 patients had an inadequate FLR based on mTLV and eTLV, respectively. Portal vein occlusion (PVO) was used in 44 patients. In patients (n = 162) in whom both methods did not evidence the need for PVO, postoperative hepatic insufficiency and mortality were 4.9% and 0.6%, respectively. Conversely, in patients (n = 27) in whom the eTLV but not the mTLV evidenced the need for PVO, and thus PVO was not performed, hepatic insufficiency (22.2%; P = 0.001) and mortality (3.7%; P = ns) were higher. CONCLUSIONS The use of eTLV identifies a subset of patients (∼11%) in whom liver volumetry with the mTLV underestimates the risk of hepatic insufficiency.

Associating liver partition with portal vein ligation and staged hepatectomy (ALPPS) for the treatment of liver tumors in children

Resection is the only curative treatment option for primary and secondary malignant tumors of the liver. Although curative resection is associated with long-term survival rates, it can only be performed in 10% of patients with primary tumors and 25% of patients with liver metastases. Liver insufficiency is one of the most serious postoperative complications of patients undergoing extensive liver resections. When total liver resection is necessary liver transplant is mandatory, with the burden of long-term immunosuppression and its complications. Among several different strategies to increase the resectability of liver tumors, portal vein occlusion (embolization or ligature), bilateral tumor resection in two stages, and resection combined with loco regional therapy are the most popular. A new strategy for patients with marginally resectable liver tumors previously considered to be unresectable was formally reported by Baumgart et al. in 2011, originally developed by Hans Schlitt in 2007. This technique consists of a two-staged hepatectomy with initial portal vein ligation and in situ splitting of the liver parenchyma, and it is known as ALPPS (associating liver partition with portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy). The aim of this study is to present the first series of pediatric patients with marginally resectable liver tumors previously considered to be unresectable treated with two-stage hepatectomy with initial portal vein ligation and in situ splitting of the liver parenchyma. Two patients were diagnosed with hepatoblastoma, and one each with rhabdomyosarcoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and nodular focal hyperplasia. ALPPS technique was considered whenever the future liver remnant (FLR) was 40% or less of the total liver volume (TLV) determined by CT or MRI scans. The ratio of FLR to TLV before the first procedure ranged from 0.15 to 0.38, with a mean±sd of 0.253±0.07. In all patients, a rapid growth of the FLR was observed. Estimates of the FRL volume prior to surgical treatment ranged from 110cc to 750cc, with a mean±sd of 361.6±213.75cc. Just before the second procedure, the volume of the remnant liver ranged from 225cc to 910cc, with a mean±sd of 563.6cc±221.7cc. The FRL volume increase had a mean±sd of 72.56%±29.05%, with a median of 83.8%. The second procedure was performed after 7 to 12days with a median of 11days. The only postoperative complication observed in one patient was an asymptomatic right pleural effusion that was aspirated during the second procedure with no further complications. ALPPS was shown to be effective and a safe procedure to treat large tumors in children.