A new abdominal drain insertion technique after a cirrhotic liver resection to prevent ascitic leakage

A simple technique for inserting an abdominal drain is reported to prevent the leakage of ascitic fluid at the abdominal drainage site after a cirrhotic liver resection. This technique consists of inserting the abdominal drain through a subcutaneous tract. When the drain is then removed during the postoperative period, the pressure of the ascitic fluid that has built up in the peritoneal cavity causes pressure which thus obliterates the subcutaneous tract and thereby prevents leakage. This technique was found to be easy to perform, safe, and effective.