Progressive hepatopathy after central division hepatectomy in a dog

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Hepatology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Large-volume hepatectomy consequences on residual liver function are poorly documented in canine models.
• Hepatocellular carcinoma necessitates surgical intervention, posing risks to remaining liver tissue.

Observation:

• A 10-year-old Lhasa Apso developed progressive hepatopathy following a central division hepatectomy for liver mass.
• Serial computed tomography (CT) revealed compensatory hypertrophy of the right lateral liver lobe and atrophy of left lobes.
• Biopsies showed regenerative changes in the right liver and elevated portal vein pressure (PVP) in the left liver.

Findings:

• Posthepatectomy progressive hepatopathy was evidenced by serum biochemistry and persistent, disparate gross liver changes on serial CT.
• Microscopic examination indicated regenerative changes in one liver lobe and elevated PVP in another, suggesting impaired portal flow.
• The observed pathology shares similarities with human posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) and small-for-size-and-flow syndrome (SFSS).

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for developing PHLF and SFSS in dogs after extensive liver resections.
• Further research is warranted to understand and manage these syndromes in veterinary patients.
• Findings contribute to the understanding of hepatectomy outcomes and potential complications in canine liver surgery.