Laparoscopic liver tumour resection with the argon beam

Our initial experience with four minor resections for one malignant and three benign lesions is reported. Dissection was accomplished by mechanical fragmentation and hydrojet. Coagulation was effectively achieved by the argon beam system. Larger vessels were clipped. Three patients were treated laparoscopically and were rapidly discharged after an uneventful postoperative course. The other patient (small hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic liver) had an intraoperative cardiac arrest, probably due to gas embolism. After restoration of normal cardiac activity, the operation was completed after conversion to an open approach. When using the argon coagulator it is necessary to prevent excessive intra-abdominal pressure due to the flow of argon gas and to avoid injury to the hepatic veins, which may cause gas embolism.