Background: Reoperation for post hepatectomy complications is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. We aim to describe the frequency, indications, and risk factors for reoperation after liver resection in a single centre.
Methods: Perioperative data of 464 patients, who underwent elective hepatectomy from 2001 to 2020 at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in South Australia, were retrospectively analysed. The frequency and indications for reoperation for post hepatectomy complications were recorded. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to determine variables associated with reoperation.
Results: A total of seven patients (1.5%) underwent reoperation post hepatectomy. The most common indications for reoperation were intra-abdominal abscess, post-operative haemorrhage, bile leak, and ischaemic bowel. Three out of the seven patients died. Patients were more likely to require reoperation if an additional major non-hepatic procedure was performed.
Conclusion: Reoperation post hepatectomy is associated with morbidity and mortality and is more likely to occur in patients who have undergone a non-hepatic procedure at the same time as the primary hepatic resection. Surgeons should ensure these patients are appropriately monitored and be selective about performing complex, multiple procedures. When possible, procedures should be staged.
Keywords: complication; hepatectomy; liver; reoperation.
© 2023 The Authors. ANZ Journal of Surgery published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.