“Curettage and aspiration dissection technique” using PMOD for liver resection

Background and aims. To introduce a special dissection technique named “Curettage and Aspiration Dissection Technique” (CADT) using a versatile instrument called Peng's Multifunction Operative Dissector (PMOD) for liver resection. PMOD is an electrosurgical pencil with an inline suction, bearing four functions: electric cutting, coagulation, aspiration and dissection, The above-mentioned functions can be achieved simultaneously or sequentially during liver resection. The purpose of this study was to evaluate this technique and the special electrosurgical device in hepatic surgery. Patients and methods. From June 2005 to December 2006, 70 consecutive patients with segmentectomy or major hepatectomy were performed with this dissection technique by the same surgeon. Peri-operative data and the technical aspect of this device and dissection technique for various types of liver resection were summarised. Results. Forty-nine of 70 cases with various degrees of cirrhosis. Median blood loss were 470 ml (100-2400 ml), the bleeding and mortality within one month postoperatively was zero. There were postoperative complications in 20 patients: bile leak occurred in five cases, nine cases with right pleural effusion and six with ascites. No relative complications with this method were found. Conclusion. The CADT and PMOD can achieve better dissection and hemostasis. It possible is a much more valuable alternative to other devices currently used for liver surgery.