Modified radiofrequency-assisted liver resection: a new device.
BACKGROUND
Radiofrequency ablation (RF) is emerging as new therapeutic method for the management of hepatic tumors. So far the RF-assisted hepatectomy has been described using an electrode initially designed for ablation of unresectable tumors. Herein, we describe a new technique for liver resection using a bipolar radiofrequency device.


METHODS
Ten patients undergo liver resection using a bipolar radiofrequency device. A minimal zone of desiccation around the tumor is created between pairs of opposing electrodes as a result of a minimum amount of energy released. This coagulated plane can be divided with a scalpel.


RESULTS
The liver parenchyma was divided with minimal blood loss. No intensive care unit admission was needed. There was no postoperative biliary leak or any other septic complication.


CONCLUSIONS
The technique is safe and feasible, simplifies liver resection and appears to be associated with minimal morbidity and maximum liver parenchyma preservation.
Zacharoulis
Dimitris
D
Department of Surgery University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece. zachadim@yahoo.com
Tzovaras
George
G
Rountas
Christos
C
Poultsidis
Antigoni
A
Katsogridakis
Emmanuel
E
Sioka
Eleni
E
Hatzitheofilou
Constantine
C
D016063:Blood Loss, Surgical / Q000517:prevention & control; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008099:Liver / Q000601:surgery; D008113:Liver Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*