Published online Jul 27, 2022. doi: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i7.1504
Peer-review started: January 30, 2022
First decision: March 7, 2022
Revised: April 10, 2022
Accepted: June 27, 2022
Article in press: June 27, 2022
Published online: July 27, 2022
Processing time: 177 Days and 19.1 Hours
Split liver transplantation is a viable option of increasing the number of available grafts, as one liver graft can yield two partial grafts for two donors. In this procedure, partial liver volume estimation, particularly left lateral segment volume estimation, is critical to the outcome of the procedure.
To assess the application of light detection and ranging technology in the ex vivo estimation of whole liver grafts.
To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and accuracy of 3D light detection and ranging (LIDAR) scanning photography of whole liver grafts and the prediction of liver volume and mass.
Seven liver grafts procured for orthotopic liver transplantation from brain deceased donors were prospectively measured in this single blind, ongoing study. All measurements were conducted in fully sterile conditions with no contact with the grafts. LIDAR calculated volume was converted into mass using a fixed value of liver density defined by convention at 1.07 gr/mL. Calculated liver mass was compared to the actual weighted liver mass of each graft.
From June 2021 until January 2022, seven liver grafts from deceased donors were included in the study. Graft weight was measured in grams (g). LIDAR imaging analysis provided the calculated graft volumes expressed in millilitres (mL). Considering the mean human liver density at 1.07 g/mL, calculated LIDAR volumes were converted to mass in grams by multiplying the volumes by 1.07. Statistical analysis of the data yielded a Pearson correlation coefficient index of 0.9968, indicating a strong correlation between the values, and a Student’s t-test P value of 0.26. Mean accuracy of the measurements was calculated at 97.88%.
Our preliminary data indicate that LIDAR scanning of liver grafts is a safe, cost-effective, and feasible method of ex vivo determination of whole liver volume and mass. More data are needed to determine the precision and accuracy of this method.
LIDAR assisted liver volumetry could add a useful tool for ex vivo partial liver volume calculation mainly in cases of split liver transplantation for donors that for various reasons did not have a pre-procurement computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study. Compared to traditional methods for liver volumetry such as CT and MRI, LIDAR volumetric assessment is more cost-effective, less time-consuming, and less operator-dependent.