Right Hepatectomy In Patient with Absent Portal Vein Bifurcation

Abstract

Introduction: Understanding of hepatic vascular anatomy and its variations are crucial for performing liver resection and transplantation. Here we present a case of successful right hepatectomy in the patient with absent portal vein bifurcation. Case presentation: 34 years old female presented for elective right hepatectomy. Preoperative CT scan demonstrated absence of portal vein bifurcation. Right hepatectomy was safely achieved by parenchymal division under ultrasound guidance with preservation of intrahepatic portal branches to left hemiliver and without postoperative complications. Discussion: Normal portal vein anatomy is observed in 65-86% of all cases [1, 2]. Of all portal vein anatomy variations, absence of the portal vein bifurcation is rarest among reported with incidence as low as 0.03% [1]. Conclusion: Preoperative recognition of aberrant portal vein anatomy is important for prevention of life-threatening complications after elective hepatectomy and transplantation.