[Hepatectomy with Nd:YAG laser: an experimental and clinical study].

We conducted an experimental and clinical study of hepatectomy with Nd:YAG laser. The results showed that cutting effect artificial sapphire contact Nd:YAG laser scalpel was better than that of quartz fiber contact and noncontact Nd:YAG laser. The tissue damage was minimal in the former group whereas, the blood loss was similar in both groups. Seven patients were operated on, with quartz fiber and 12 with artificial sapphire laser scalpel. No complications were related to the use of laser. We consider that partial liver resection can be performed effectively with artificial sapphire contact Nd:YAG laser scalpel because of its better cutting, coagulation effects, and less tissue damage.