Left renal vein graft and in situ hepatic perfusion in hepatectomy for complete tumor invasion of hepatic veins: hemodynamic optimization and surgical technique

Purpose: Assessing hepatic vein reconstruction using a left renal vein graft and in situ hypothermic liver perfusion in an extended liver resection.

Methods: Patients included in this study were those with liver tumors undergoing curative surgery with resection and reconstruction of hepatic veins. Hepatic vein was reconstructed using a left renal vein graft. We describe the technical aspects of liver resection and vascular reconstruction, the key aspects of hemodynamic management, and the use of in situ hypothermic liver preservations during liver transection (prior to and during vascular clamping).

Results: The right hepatic vein was reconstructed with a median left renal venal graft length of 4.5 cm (IQR, 3.1-5.2). Creatinine levels remained within normal limits in the immediate postoperative phase and during follow-up. Median blood loss was 500 ml (IQR, 300-1500) and in situ perfusion with cold ischemia was 67 min (IQR, 60.5-77.5). The grafts remained patent during the follow-up with no signs of thrombosis. No major postoperative complications were observed.

Conclusion: Left renal vein graft for the reconstruction of a hepatic vein and in situ hypothermic liver perfusion are feasible during extended liver resection.