Liver resections in Auckland 1998-2001: mortality, morbidity and blood product use.

AIMS

There has been a marked increase in the number of liver resections undertaken at Auckland Hospital since 1998. Low central venous pressure anaesthesia was routinely used for liver resection during this period. The aim of this study was to review this experience, with particular emphasis on the peri-operative outcomes of morbidity, mortality and blood product use.

METHODS

All patients undergoing liver resection from January 1998 to May 2001 were included in the review. Standardised data were collated retrospectively from hospital records and transferred to an electronic database for analysis.

RESULTS

Of 123 patients undergoing liver resection, 113 were elctive and ten were urgent operations. 65% had major resections and 10% had synchronous extrahepatic surgery. There were three post-operative deaths (mortality 2.4%) due to liver failure and sepsis. One or more complications occurred in 68 patients (morbidity 55%). 72% did not receive a blood transfusion during their hospital stay. Only two of 113 elective patients required a massive blood transfusion (ten or more units).

CONCLUSIONS

Mortality in the study period was low but morbidity remains significant. Blood product use was low in elective patients. These results compare well with those of specialised hepatobiliary units internationally.