Robotic Central Hepatectomy and Right Anterior Sectionectomy: Minimally Invasive Parenchyma Sparing Surgery for Central Liver Tumors

Excerpt

Central liver tumors present a unique challenge to hepatobiliary surgeons and are often treated with extended hepatectomy. Central hepatectomy and its variations are an alternative parenchyma sparing strategy; however, they are highly technically challenging cases [1]. These resections require two transection planes with dissection of numerous inflow pedicles and hepatic vein outflow branches during parenchymal transection. The minimally invasive experience with central resections is limited, likely owing to the difficulty of the procedure and limitations of laparoscopy [2]. Robotic technology overcomes many of the shortcomings of laparoscopy and has been shown to increase the ability to safely perform major hepatectomy [3]. In this study, we demonstrate the feasibility and safety of a robotic approach to complex central liver resections. …