Robotic Resection of a Type IIIB Klatskin Tumor

Abstract

Perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (Klatskin tumor) is one of the most challenging hepatobiliary cancers to treat due to its critical location and tendency to involve nearby vascular structures in the portal hepatic. A combined biliary and major liver resection is often required to achieve a complete oncological resection. Traditionally, Klatskin tumor resection is performed using an “open” approach until recently when the minimally invasive technique becomes popular due to its proven advantages. The laparoscopic technique had been reported; however, the majority of resections were types I and II without the need for ipsilateral hepatectomy. Inherent limitations of straight laparoscopic instruments result in significant technical difficulties in performing precise tissue dissection and vessel repair and creating a fine bilioenteric anastomosis. In this didactical video, we described our technique of type IIIB Klatskin tumor (B3-L perihilar cholangiocarcinoma) resection utilizing a robotic technology. The use of a robotic platform facilitates precise porta hepatic dissection, bleeding control, and creation of a fine bilioenteric anastomosis at the level of the hilar plate. We believe that the robotic platform provides an alternative method for resection of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma with excellent short-term outcomes.