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Laparoscopic Anatomical Liver Segment VII Resection with Liver Parenchymal Transection Following a Priority Approach
Published on: May 23, 2025
Evaluation of a fast-track programme for patients undergoing liver resection
N A Schultz1, P N Larsen, B Klarskov
1Departments of Surgical Gastroenterology and Transplantation, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
The British Journal of Surgery
|November 21, 2012
Summary
Fast-track principles for liver resection significantly reduce hospital stay, with laparoscopic procedures showing shorter recovery times. This evidence-based approach is safe and effective for improving patient outcomes after liver surgery.
Area of Science:
- Hepatobiliary Surgery
- Surgical Oncology
- Perioperative Medicine
Background:
- Multimodal rehabilitation, known as fast-track surgery, is increasingly used to improve recovery after major procedures.
- Evidence supports its role in reducing morbidity and hospital length of stay (LOS).
- The study investigated the application of fast-track principles in liver resection patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of implementing fast-track perioperative care in patients undergoing open or laparoscopic liver resection.
- To assess the impact on patient recovery, morbidity, and hospital LOS.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study of 100 consecutive liver resection patients adhering to fast-track protocols.
- Early removal of catheters/drains, early mobilization, and early oral intake were implemented.
- Opioid-sparing multimodal pain management and specific discharge criteria were used.
Main Results:
- Median LOS was 5 days overall; significantly shorter for laparoscopic (2 days) versus open resection (5 days).
- LOS was 5 days for minor open resections and 6 days for major resections.
- Readmission rate was 6.0%, with zero 30-day mortality.
Conclusions:
- Fast-track principles are successfully and safely implemented in perioperative care for liver resection.
- Routine discharge is feasible within 2 days for laparoscopic and 4-5 days for open liver resections.
