Experimental Liver Surgery for Liver Research: Update, Choice and Translation

Experimental animal models of liver surgery are crucial for understanding human liver physiology and pathogenesis and identifying novel therapeutic modalities for liver disease. Herein, we update the brief summary of the most widely used experimental models and concepts in hepatic surgery, including hepatic ischemia/reperfusion, partial hepatectomy, liver transplantation, techniques and parameters of vascular perfusion of the liver, and using bile duct ligation as a model of cholestasis for the development of liver fibrosis. We focus on surgical aspects of available models for the study of various forms of liver disease. Furthermore, we summarize the translation of experimental liver surgery by highlighting surgical innovations, exploring key molecular mechanisms, and employing emerging treatment strategies.