Bloodless hepatic resection with automatic bipolar radiofrequency generator and multielectrode device

Area of Science:

• Hepatobiliary Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Techniques
• Radiofrequency Ablation

Background:

• Liver resection is a standard treatment for liver tumors.
• Intra-operative blood loss during liver resection is linked to increased postoperative complications and reduced survival.
• Achieving bloodless liver resection remains a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel apparatus for bloodless liver resection.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of the SURTRON SB device in liver transection.
• To determine if the technique reduces blood loss and improves postoperative outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Development of an incremental, bipolar radiofrequency generator (SURTRON SB) with a six-needle probe.
• Ex-vivo and in-vivo experiments in pig livers followed by a first-phase clinical study.
• Radiofrequency coagulation of liver parenchyma (470 kHz, 150 W) followed by scalpel transection.

Main Results:

• The SURTRON SB achieved effective coagulation (35 mm length, 12 mm width).
• The technique resulted in a bloodless liver resection in both animal models and the pilot clinical study.
• Observed good healing of the liver edge with no systemic complications or adverse reactions.

Conclusions:

• The SURTRON SB facilitates feasible, easy, and safe bloodless liver resection.
• This radiofrequency-assisted technique eliminates the need for sutures, ties, staples, or tissue glue.
• The method offers a promising approach to minimize blood loss and improve patient outcomes in liver surgery.