title: The use of an absorbable mesh wrap in the management of major liver injuries.
abstract: Uncontrollable hemorrhage remains the predominant cause of death in patients with complex liver injuries. In view of the recently reported success in control of hemorrhage from and salvage of the injured spleen and kidney with an absorbable mesh wrap, we have begun to use a similar technique in the management of major hepatic parenchymal injuries, as an alternative to suture hepatorrhaphy, lobar resection, and perihepatic packing. The technique of mesh-wrap hepatorrhaphy is described in detail. Our initial experience with four cases is reported, demonstrating the unique features of the mesh and the technical ease with which it can be applied. Advantages over conventional techniques are discussed. These include avoidance of reoperation for removal of perihepatic packing, avoidance of hepatic necrosis after wide suture hepatorrhaphy, and avoidance of the morbidity associated with lobar resections.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, University of Miami School of Medicine, Jackson Memorial Medical Center, Fla.
authors.forename: L E
authors.initials: LE
authors.lastname: Jacobson
authors.forename: O C
authors.initials: OC
authors.lastname: Kirton
authors.forename: G A
authors.initials: GA
authors.lastname: Gomez
mesh_terms: D000063:Accidents, Traffic; D000328:Adult; D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D005260:Female; D006470:Hemorrhage / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008099:Liver / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011098:Polyglactin 910; D014948:Wounds, Gunshot
chemical_list: D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D011098:Polyglactin 910