Effective vascular endostapler techniques in hepatic resection.

The purpose of this report is to describe the technique of liver resection using an endovascular stapling device. A total of 31 patients underwent major hepatic resections with stapling techniques. The authors have used various approaches to portal structures and hepatic veins with the application of a vascular endostapler device. The specific techniques of different hepatectomies are described and illustrated. There were no deaths. A minor complication (biliary fistula) occurred in one patient, related to binary leak from parenchymal transection. No complications directly attributable to stapler ligations of portal pedicle or hepatic veins were observed. Stapling techniques can be helpful in major hepatic resection procedures. The vascular endostapler can significantly reduce both portal vein and hepatic vein closure time and may expedite the transection of the liver, eliminating the risk of slipped ligature following simple ligation.