Application of endobronchial ultrasonography in laparoscopic liver segmentectomy in an animal model.

INTRODUCTION: This study investigated whether laparoscopic ultrasound-guided segment staining and real-time ultrasound-guided hepatectomy, with endobronchial ultrasonography equipped with a guide sheath, would be useful for laparoscopic liver segmentectomy in a porcine model.

MATERIAL AND SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: The abdominal cavity (in two pigs) was reached via a 12-mm umbilical trocar. An artificial tumor was created by radiofrequency ablation within the intended resection area. Portal vein puncture and staining were performed by the endobronchial ultrasonography-guided method. The targeted portal branch was successfully visualized and punctured with a needle through an equipped guide sheath. After targeted segment staining, the liver parenchyma was resected with a bipolar energy device; the regional Glisson's sheath was ligated and cut, and a surgical specimen was extracted. Real-time endobronchial ultrasonography from the cut surface provided information vital for preserving the surgical margin. All procedures were performed laparoscopically.

DISCUSSION: This study demonstrated the technical feasibility of laparoscopic ultrasound-guided portal vein staining and safe surgical resection during laparoscopic liver segmentectomy.