Mesna preserves hepatocyte regenerating capacity following liver radiofrequency ablation under Pringle maneuver

Petros Ypsilantis1, Maria Lambropoulou, Constantinos Anagnostopoulos

  • 1Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece. pipsil@med.duth.gr

Abstract

Insights

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the liver under the Pringle maneuver suppresses hepatocyte regeneration. Mesna administration protects liver cells by reducing inflammation and injury during RFA procedures.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatobiliary surgery
  • Interventional radiology
  • Surgical oncology

Background:

  • Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a common liver intervention.
  • The Pringle maneuver is used to reduce bleeding during liver surgery.
  • The impact of combining RFA with the Pringle maneuver on liver regeneration is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To test if the Pringle maneuver attenuates liver regeneration after RFA.
  • To investigate the protective effects of mesna on liver tissue during RFA and Pringle maneuver.
  • To assess the impact on oxidative stress, inflammation, and hepatocyte mitotic activity.

Main Methods:

  • Wistar rats underwent liver RFA, RFA with Pringle maneuver, RFA with Pringle and mesna, Pringle maneuver only, or sham operation.
  • Liver oxidative state (GSH/GSSG ratio) and NF-κB activity were measured.
  • Serum levels of IL-6, TNF-α, AST, and ALT were quantified.
  • Histopathology and hepatocyte mitotic activity were assessed at various time points.

Main Results:

  • Liver RFA under Pringle maneuver suppressed hepatocyte mitotic activity.
  • Mesna administration preserved hepatocyte regeneration and reduced liver injury.
  • The Pringle maneuver increased inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-α) and NF-κB activation, which were attenuated by mesna.
  • Oxidative stress was induced across groups, but mesna mitigated associated tissue damage.

Conclusions:

  • Liver RFA performed with the Pringle maneuver significantly suppresses hepatocyte regeneration.
  • Prophylactic mesna administration protects the liver by reducing inflammation and injury.
  • Mesna preserves regenerative capacity in non-ablated liver parenchyma during combined RFA and Pringle maneuver.