How to improve bilio-stasis in liver surgery.

One of the most fearful complications following hepatic resection is the onset of a biliary fistula. We have attempted to improve intraoperative bilio-stasis to minimize the risk of postoperative fistula development by testing different materials. In the early 2005 we began employing a collagen sponge coated with fibrinogen and thrombin (Tachosil) In our clinical experience, prior to sponge use, a biliary fistula developed in 3.9% of elective resections and 5.1% of surgical procedures for liver trauma. Until now there were no postoperative bile leaks in the patients treated with Tachosil.