Background: Despite the increasing experience of laparoscopic and hepatic surgery, laparoscopic liver resection is still limited to lesions localized on the antero-lateral segments of the liver. The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of laparoscopic liver resection for tumors located in the postero-superior segments of the liver (Segments I, VII, VIII, and the superior part of IV), and to compare operative outcomes with the antero-lateral segments of the liver (Segments II, III, V, VI, and the inferior part of IV). Methods: Out of 120 consecutive laparoscopic liver resections from September 2003 to July 2007, we analyzed the clinical data of 77 patients who underwent laparoscopic liver resection for tumors. Five (6.5%) conversions occurred. Patients were classified into two groups according to tumor location: group AL (antero-lateral segments; n=50) and group PS (postero-superior segments, n=22). Results: There was no mortality, reoperation, or life threatening complications. The predominant type of resection was a minor liver resection in group AL, and a major liver resection in group PS (P
Session: Podium Presentation
Program Number: S114