Laparoscopic Right Hepatectomy

Abstract

Laparoscopic right hepatectomy (LRH) is an important technique in a modern hepatobiliary surgeon’s arsenal. It’s application extends to many different disease processes including both malignant and benign tumors as well as infections and in trauma. The procedure involves using minimally invasive methods to remove Couinaud segments 5-8 delineated by the portion of the liver right and lateral to Cantlie’s line. In this chapter, we explain the approach to performing this operation by delving into preoperative considerations with a focus on high quality imaging, 3D reconstruction, and virtual hepatectomy, optimizing the future liver remnant (FLR) with PVE and use of parenchymal sparing methods, and detailed intraoperative steps emphasizing caudal view, Glissonian approach, MHV roadmap, and communication with anesthesia. We also give context to LRH by discussing the two most common diseases addressed by it, namely colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), as well as historical perspectives and how LRH use has evolved. We also address complication management such as post-operative liver failure and intra-operative bleeding accidents, variants on exposure with hand assist and transthoracic view, and comparing the advantages and disadvantages between open and laparoscopic right hepatectomy. This review contains 12 figures, 4 tables, and 111 references. Keywords: augmented reality, laparoscopic right hepatectomy, laparoscopic PVE and ALPPS, low CVP anesthesia, MHV roadmap, minimally invasive liver resection, parenchymal sparing right hepatectomy, Takasaki caudal approach, virtual hepatectomy,