[Reevaluation of protective effects of alprostadil on hepatic function in patients undergoing hepatectomy].

BACKGROUND

The protective effect of alprostadil (PGE1), used during hepatectomy, on hepatic function has not been clearly proven. We reevaluated this effect by measuring serum alpha-glutathione S-transferase (aGST), which detects liver injury sensitively.

METHOD

Thirty hepatocellular carcinoma patients scheduled for hepatectomy were randomly assigned to control (n=12) and PGE1 (n=10) groups. In the latter group, PGE1 was administered intravenously at a rate of 0.05 microg x kg(-1) x min(-1) during surgery. For measuring alphaGST, arterial blood samples were obtained before anesthesia, following laparotomy, and immediately, 2, 4, and 6 hrs after liver resection.

RESULTS

The alphaGST concentrations after liver resection were significantly higher, while mean arterial pressures were significantly lower in the PGE1 group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that PGE1 medication during hepatectomy cannot protect hepatic function during and after liver resection.