Dynamic surgical anatomy using 3D reconstruction technology in complex hepato-biliary surgery with vascular involvement. Results from an international multicentric survey

Introduction: Three-dimensional liver modeling can lead to substantial changes in choosing the type and extension of liver resection. This study aimed to explore whether 3D reconstruction helps to better understand the relationship between liver tumors and neighboring vascular structures compared to standard 2D CT scan images. Methods: Contrast-enhanced CT scan images of 11 patients suffering from primary and secondary hepatic tumors were selected. Twenty-three experienced HBP surgeons participated to the survey. A standardized questionnaire outlining 16 different vascular structures (items) having a potential relationship with the tumor was provided. Intraoperative and histopathological findings were used as the reference standard. The proper hypothesis was that 3D accuracy is greater than 2D. As a secondary endpoint, inter-raters’ agreement was explored. Results: The mean difference between 3D and 2D, was 2.6 points (SE: 0.40; 95 % CI: 1.7–3.5; p < 0.0001). After sensitivity analysis, the results favored 3D visualization as well (mean difference 1.7 points; SE: 0.32; 95 % CI: 1.0–2.5; p = 0.0004). The inter-raters’ agreement was moderate for both methods (2D: W = 0.45; 3D: W = 0.44). Conclusion: 3D reconstruction may give a significant contribution to better understanding liver vascular anatomy and the precise relationship between the tumor and the neighboring structures.