Open hepatic parenchymal transection using ultrasonic dissection and bipolar coagulation

Liver transection is the most challenging part of liver resection due to the risk of massive blood loss which is associated with increased postoperative morbidity and mortality, as well as reduced long-term survival after resection of malignancies. Among the devices used for open parenchyma transection, ultrasonic dissection with bipolar cautery forceps is one of the most widely used technique worldwide. We identified four retrospective comparative studies and three randomized controlled trials dealing with the efficacy of ultrasonic dissector (UD) compared with other techniques including the historical clamp crushing technique. UD is associated with similar blood loss and slower resection time compared with water-jet or clamp crushing technique. However, it seems to be more precise in dissecting vessels. Its use does not impact on morbidity and hospital stay compared with other techniques. From an economic point of view, UD is the most expensive technique and may be a disadvantage for low centre volume. UD with bipolar cautery is one of the safest and the most efficient device for liver transection, even if its superiority over the clamp crushing technique has not been well established. It is considered as a standard technique for liver transection.