Low positive airway pressure without positive end-expiratory pressure decreases blood loss during hepatectomy in living liver donors

Background/Aims: Despite the development of strategies to minimize blood loss during hepatectomy challenges remain. Our aim was to determine whether low positive airway pressure (PAP) without positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) could minimize blood loss during hepatectomy. Methods: Forty-one living liver donors who underwent extended left lobectomy or right lobectomy between December 2012 and November 2013 were retrospectively analyzed. In the standard PAP group (n = 18), tidal volume was 8-10 ml/kg, respiratory rate was 10-12/min and PEEP was maintained at 5 cm H₂O. In the low PAP group (n = 23), tidal volume was reduced to 5 ml/kg, respiratory rate was increased to 15/min and PEEP maintained at 0 cm H₂O. Low central venous pressure (CVP) was maintained during surgery in all cases. Results: The low PAP group had significantly less blood loss (p = 0.0075) and shorter operation time (p = 0.0303) than the standard PAP group. In multiple regression analysis, ventilation mode and median CVP were found to be determining factors for blood loss. In no case did the ventilation mode affect perioperative management. Conclusions: Low PAP without PEEP is a safe mechanical ventilation mode that might help minimize blood loss along with CVP monitoring during hepatectomy.