Background: The liver hanging maneuver is a useful technique to transect the liver parenchyma in an open approach while lifting it with a tape passed between the anterior surface of the inferior vena cava and the liver parenchyma. The hanging maneuver during laparoscopic liver resection is not routinely utilized.
Materials and methods: We describe the technique and results of a modified hanging maneuver using the Goldfinger dissector in 13 right and 5 left hepatectomies. This technique allowed us to dissect the space between right and middle hepatic veins; to create the infero-superior arcade through the space between the anterior surface of the vena cava and the posterior surface of the liver; to lift the cutting area of the liver from the posterior to the anterior direction; to indicate the parenchymal transection line.
Results: The median resection time and blood loss were 96 min and 220 ml respectively. No conversion was recorded. Two complications (11%) occurred: a biliary fistula and a respiratory distress syndrome, spontaneously resolved.
Conclusions: The modified hanging maneuver for laparoscopic right and left hepatectomy based on the use of the Goldfinger dissector is safe, reproducible, and can facilitate liver dissection during major hepatectomy.
Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.