The outcomes of central hepatectomy versus extended hepatectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Central hepatectomy (CH) is a relatively uncommon liver resection technique. It is generally perceived as a more complex operation than extended hepatectomies (EH), with potentially higher associated morbidity. The outcomes of CH compared with EH is not well defined and there is a need to reassess. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science according to PRISMA guidelines for studies on the treatment of liver tumours with CH published from 1972 until February 2017. Outcomes of patients undergoing CH were assessed and compared to those undergoing EH. Results: 18 publications including 1380 CH were included for analysis. Mortality rates after CH ranged from 0 to 9%. There were 20 (1.4%) deaths after CH and the most common cause of death was posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF). Morbidity rates varied between 12 and 61% and 316 (23%) postoperative events were reported. Analysis of five comparative studies showed similar mortality between CH and EH groups (OR: 0.64, 95% CI = 0.24-1.70, p = 0.37). There were significantly fewer overall postoperative complications in the CH group (OR: 0.38, 95% CI = 0.28-0.51, p < 0.001) and reduced PHLF was found in the CH group compared to EH (OR: 0.53, 95% CI = 0.29-0.98, p = 0.04). The rates of posthepatectomy biliary complications were similar between groups (OR: 0.98, 95% CI = 0.51-1.88, p = 0.96). Mean length of stay (days) was shorter in the CH group (MD: -2.67, 95% CI = -4.93 to -0.41, p = 0.02). Conclusion: CH appears to have similar post-operative mortality rates compared to EH but is associated with fewer post-operative complications, including PHLF and shorter overall length of stay.