Comparative Study on Liver Resection Between Harmonic Scalpel Versus Crush-clamping Method

Blood loss during liver resection significantly associates with short term operative outcome. The median blood loss during partial liver resection is 700-1200ml in high-volume centers. Conventional method (crush-clamp) has been a standard technique for liver transection. Technique advances related to liver transection have contributed to reduction in blood loss. Several studies have showed that Harmonic Scalpel in liver resection is safe and easy to use. A nonrandomized study showed use of the Harmonic Scalpel was associated with decreased operative time, blood loss and transfusion requirement, and an increased incidence of postoperative bile leakage. However, no randomized study has compared the difference between liver resection using traditional technology and harmonic Scalpel. The objective of this prospective randomized study is to compare the safety and efficacy of liver resection using the harmonic scalpel device with the "crush-clamp" technique in respect to blood loss, liver transection time, hepatic hilum clamping time, hospital stay and postoperative complications.