Robotic Left Trisectionectomy with Glissonian Approach (with Video)

Left hepatic trisectionectomy consists of the removal of liver segments 2, 3, 4, 5, and 8. This difficult surgical procedure may be required when the left liver and right anterior sector (segments 5 and 8) are involved. We present a video of a robotic anatomic left trisectionectomy with Glissonian approach to the left and right anterior sector pedicles.

A 77-year-old man presented at a routine ultrasound with a large liver mass. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a bulky hepatocellular carcinoma occupying liver segments 2, 3, 4, 5, and 8, with a portal tumor thrombus in the right anterior sector. The patient had multiple comorbidities, including obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and coronariopathy. The multidisciplinary team decided to use immunotherapy with atezolizumab and bevacizumab. After 12 cycles, the patient showed an objective response, and left trisectionectomy was indicated. A robotic approach was proposed and consent was obtained. The Glissonian approach was used for anatomic control of the left and right anterior sector pedicles.

The operative time was 390 min with an estimated blood loss of 410 ml, and no transfusion was required during or after the procedure. Recovery was uneventful and the patient was discharged on postoperative day 8. No bile leak was observed, and the drain was removed on postoperative day 8.

Robotic left trisectionectomy is safe and feasible. The Glissonian approach is useful for anatomic left liver trisectionectomy. This video can help gastrointestinal surgeons perform this complex procedure in a minimally invasive manner.