Background: Pedicle clamping during liver resection (LR) is debated. The purpose of this study is to validate non-clamping policy across a large series of LR and to evaluate the need for salvage clamping (SC) and its outcomes.
Methods: Five hundred twelve consecutive LR without initial pedicle clamping performed between 2004 and 2009 were analyzed.
Results: Among 512 LR (171 major hepatectomies), 90.2% were completed without clampage. Fifty (9.8%) required SC. Blood loss were higher in SC group (555 vs. 175 mL, p < 0.0001), while transfusion rate was not. No differences were observed in terms of mortality (0%/1.3%), morbidity (38%/38.3%), liver dysfunction (4%/3.7%), and renal dysfunction (0%/1.3%). Bile leak rate was increased in the SC group (20%/10.2%, p = 0.036). At multivariate analysis, three predictive factors of SC were identified: arterial hypertension (p = 0.007, SC rate = 13%), cirrhosis (p = 0.003, SC rate = 26%), and LR conducted along the right portal scissure (p = 0.010, SC rate = 32%). One protective factor was identified: LR confined to antero-lateral segments (Sg2-6, p = 0.001, SC rate = 2%). Extension of LR had no impact on need for SC.
Conclusions: The majority of LR can be safely performed without clamping with excellent outcomes. SC is a safe procedure and does not worsen postoperative outcomes, except for bile leak rate. Clamping policy should be tailored to the type of LR and presence of cirrhosis.