Analysis of the biliostatic potential of two sealants in a standardized porcine model of liver resection

Abstract Background Improved resection techniques has decreased mortality rate following liver resections(LRx). Sealants are known as effective adjuncts for haemostasis after LRx. We compared biliostatic effectiveness of two sealants in a standardized porcine model of LRx. Material and methods We accomplished left hemihepatectomy on 27 pigs. The animals were randomized in control group(n = 9) with no sealant and treatment groups (each n = 9), in which resection surfaces were covered with TachoSil ® and TissuFleece ® /Tissucol Duo ® . After 5 days the volume of ascites(ml), bilioma and/or bile leakages and degree of intra-abdominal adhesions were analysed. Results Proportion of ascites was lower in TissuFleece/Tissucol Duo ® group. The ascites volume was lower in TachoSil ® group. In sealant groups, increased adhesion specially in the TachoSil ® group was seen. A reduction of the “bilioma rate” was seen in sealant groups, which was significantly lower in TissuFleece ® /Tissucol Duo ® group. Conclusion In a standardized condition sealants have a good biliostatic effect but with heterogeneous potentials. This property in combination with the cost-benefit analysis should be the focus of future prospective studies.