HEPATECTOMY IN CHILDREN: 10 YEAR EXPERIENCE IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Abstract

Background: Hepatectomy can be safely performed in children with primary liver tumors, selected cases of metastatic tumors and traumatic liver injuries. However, liver resections are associated with significant morbidity and mortality even in advanced centers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of liver resections over a period of 10 years. Material and Methods: This was a prospective study of patients who underwent various types of hepatectomies for different indications from March 2005 to April 2015. Results: 15 patients underwent liver resections during the study period. The age of patients ranged from 8 months to 14 years with a mean age of 3.7 years. The indications in our patients were hepatoblastoma in 9 patients, traumatic liver injury in 3 patients, abscess in 1 patient, the liver extension of right Wilms tumor in 1 patient and extension of left neuroblastoma to the liver in 1 patient. Right, and left hepatectomies were done in 8 (54.4%) and 5 (33.3%) patients respectively. Nonanatomic/ wedge resection was done in 2 (13.3%) patients. Hemorrhage which needed transfusion occurred in 4 (26.7%) patients, bile leaks in 1 (6.7%), wound infection in 1 (6.7%) and death in 1 (6.7%) patients.
Conclusion: Liver resection in children can be safely performed with minimal morbidity and mortality. Better results can be achieved with good per operative care, vigilant identification and good expertise in the management of complications.
KEYWORDS: Hepatectomy, Children, Outcome.