Initial experience with Double-vein Embolization in Hungary

Introduction

In recent years several new techniques have emerged to induce hypertrophy of the future liver remnant prior to major hepatectomies. We aimed to summarize our initial experience with Double-vein Embolization as the first center in Hungary.

Methods

Between March 2023 and August 2024 a total of 16 Double-vein Embolization procedures were performed in Semmelweis University. Future liver remnant volume was calculated based on computed tomography scans obtained within 4 weeks prior and 2–3 weeks after the procedure. Tc-99m mebrofenin hepatobiliary scintigraphy results were available for 12/16 patients.

Results

Technical success rate was 100 %. No major complication was observed. Successful resection rate was 93.8 %. One patient died due to post-hepatectomy liver failure. Future liver remnant volume and ratio increased significantly after the procedure compared to baseline (433.1 ± 163.8 cm³ vs. 603.5 ± 201.8 cm³, p < 0.0001 and 27.2 ± 6.5 % vs. 37 ± 8.8 %, p < 0.0001, respectively). Future liver remnant clearance improved significantly 1 and 2 weeks after the procedure (1.68 ± 0.58 %/min/m² vs. 2.44 ± 0.64 %/min/m² and 2.39 ± 0.31 %/min/m², respectively). Mean function gain was 50.6 % after one week and 60.1% after two weeks, respectively.

Discussion

Volumetric and functional outcomes in the present study are comparable with results reported in the literature. Our findings provide further evidence that Double-vein Embolization is a safe procedure that offers sufficient volumetric and functional gain in most candidates for liver resection. However, further studies are needed to define the exact place of this new technique in clinical practice.