A new operation for noncorrectable biliary atresia.

An improved operative technique to transect the fibrous cord by dividing the ligamentum venosum (Arantius' canal) is described for noncorrectable biliary atresia. The Arantius' canal is situated cranial and posterior side to the bifurcation of the umbilical portion and the portal branch of the Quinous' segment 3. The portal vein is fully mobile and the porta hepatis can be widely exposed by dividing the Arantius' canal. The fibrous cord of the porta hepatis can easily be dissected posteriorly and laterally where there is an extensive number of bile ducts. Eight patients with biliary atresia underwent this procedure. Jaundice resolved completely (serum total bilirubin concentration: < or = 1 mg/dl) in 7 patients within 40 days. Postoperative cholangitis did not occur. By dividing the Arantius' canal, the portal vein comes free from the portal fissure to make the hepatic hilum wider, and surgeons are able to work within a larger porta hepatic space without causing portal vein compression. Free drainage of the bile from the porta hepatis may prevent postoperative cholangitis and promote resolution of jaundice.