New application of the bipolar vapor plasma coagulation system for laparoscopic major liver resections.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, laparascopic techniques have become a more widely used and accepted means for performing various types of liver resections. In this report, the authors describe the use and initial applications of a new approach to laparoscopic liver resection using vapor pulse coagulation.
METHODS: Liver resections using vapor plasma coagulation technology were performed for 11 patients at the authors' center. Candidates were initially selected because they had benign disease and lesions amenable to standard resections along anatomic planes. Four resections were performed with a hand-assist technique and seven without it.
RESULTS: All the patients faired well. The length of the hospital stay was 3.4 +/- 0.7 days. There were no major surgical complications, bile leaks, or reoperations. None of the patients required blood transfusions. One patient was readmitted for fever and urinary tract infection, and one patient had 1 week of right leg swelling attributable to the use of stirrups.
CONCLUSIONS: Vapor plasma coagulation using a laparoscopic approach for hepatic resection is a promising new technology that deserves further exploration.