Initial results of MR-guided liver resection in a high-field open MRI

Background The goal of this study was to evaluate high-field open magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for intraoperative real-time imaging during hand-assisted laparoscopic liver resection. MR guidance has several advantages compared to ultrasound and may represent a future technique for abdominal surgery. Various MRI-safe and -compatible instruments were developed, tested, and applied to realize minimally invasive liver surgery under MR guidance. As proof of the concept, liver resection was performed in a porcine model.