An Innovation in the Technique of Recipient Hepatectomy in Living Donor Liver Transplantation

Recipient hepatectomy is a challenging surgical procedure. Coagulopathy, multiple collaterals, and dense adhesions secondary to previous spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotics are the major contributing factors. However, the appropriate recipient hepatectomy technique can limit the massive blood loss and minimize the operative time. The hepatoduodenal dissection has a key role in recipient hepatectomy. The hilar structures of partial graft in live donor liver transplantation (LDLT) usually have a short length and a small caliber. The concerning task in LDLT recipient hepatectomy is to preserve the integrity, quality, and adequacy of hilar structures for successful implantation. The high hilar dissection technique is usually practiced for getting the adequate length of hilar structures. However, the problems with high hilar dissection inducted the authors to tailor the technique over time. In this report, a modified technique of recipient hepatectomy characterised by the artery-first approach is described. This technique is good in terms of preventing arterial dissection and minimising the anhepatic phase. Key Words: Recipient hepatectomy, Hepatoduodenal dissection, Liver transplantation, Technique.