Advancements in liver retraction techniques for laparoscopic gastrectomy

Abstract

Traditionally, liver retraction for laparoscopic gastrectomy is done via manual methods, such as the placement of retractors through the accessory ports and using a Nathanson retractor. However, these techniques often posed issues including extra abdominal incisions, risk of liver injury or ischaemia, and the potential for compromised visualization. Over the years, the development of innovative liver retraction techniques has significantly improved the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic gastrectomy and similar other hiatal procedures. This editorial will comment on the article by Lin et al, and compare this to the other liver retractor techniques available for surgeons and highlight the pros and cons of each technique of liver retraction.

Keywords: Liver retraction; Laparoscopic surgery; Bariatric surgery; Gastrectomy; Retractor-related liver injury

Core Tip: The approach of the modified hepatic left lateral lobe inversion technique provides another tool for minimally invasive upper gastrointestinal surgeons to safely retract the liver.