Novel use of the falciform ligament for reconstruction of the inferior vena cava and its tributary

Tumor invasion into the inferior vena cava (IVC) and hepatic vein (HV) is challenging in cancer surgery with curative intent. Appropriate techniques for venous reconstruction are essential. We have described in detail a novel technique of fashioning an interposition tube graft using the falciform ligament to reconstruct the IVC and HV. The falciform ligament maintains all the benefits of an autologous tissue graft, with the added advantage of its flexibility in customizing graft dimensions. Its use in IVC and HV reconstruction has rarely been reported. The short-term outcomes with this tube graft are promising.

Automated summary

This novel technique of using the falciform ligament to fashion an interposition tube graft for reconstruction of IVC and HV has shown promising short-term outcomes, offering the benefits of autologous tissue graft with customizable dimensions.