Vascular reconstruction using left renal vein graft in advanced hepatobiliary malignancy

BACKGROUND/AIMS: In surgical resection for advanced hepatobiliary malignancies involving the portal vein and inferior vena cava, vascular reconstruction is usually required. We utilized left renal vein grafts for vascular reconstruction in cases of these malignancies, and their clinical significance is evaluated in this study. METHODOLOGY: Left renal vein grafts were utilized for reconstruction of the portal vein in four patients and patch repair of the inferior vena cava was performed in two patients with advanced hepatobiliary malignancies. All six patients underwent hepatic resection with vascular resection and reconstruction. Postoperative renal function and graft patency were assessed. RESULTS: Transient slight renal disturbances appeared in some patients, but there was no severe renal dysfunction requiring specific therapy. Graft patency was maintained during the follow-up period in all patients. CONCLUSION: The use of left renal vein grafts as autovein grafts seems appropriate in cases involving reconstruction of the portal vein and in those involving patch repair of the inferior vena cava defect in surgical resection for advanced hepatobiliary malignancies.