Liver resection with a new multiprobe bipolar radiofrequency device

Hypothesis: Liver resection can be associated with marked blood loss. A novel multiprobe bipolar radiofrequency device (Habib 4X; RITA Medical Systems Inc, Fremont, California) has been developed to assist in liver resection and to reduce intraoperative blood loss. Design: Prospective study. Setting: Tertiary referral unit. Patients: Sixty-two patients requiring liver resection between November 1, 2004, and February 28, 2006, primarily for metastatic cancer. Intervention: Liver resection with the radiofrequency device. Main Outcome Measures: Intraoperative blood loss, liver parenchyma transection time, and complications. Results: There were 51 minor and 11 major hepatectomies. Mean (SD) transection time was 39 (27) seconds per square centimeter. Mean (SD) blood loss was 4.8 (5.6) mL per square centimeter. No patient required hepatic inflow occlusion. One patient required blood transfusion. There were no deaths, and the morbidity rate was 18%. Mean (SD) hospital stay was 8 (3) days. Conclusions: This new bipolar radiofrequency device allows minor and major hepatectomies to be performed with minimal blood loss, low blood transfusion requirement, and reduced mortality and morbidity rates.