En-Bloc Complete Segment 1 Resection and Left Hepatectomy for Klatskin Tumor

We present the case of a 37-year-old male patient with no significant history, hospitalized in our center for painless jaundice with sudden onset. CT contrast portal phase imaging revealed a tumor located at the main biliary confluence, in the proximity of the main portal bifurcation, with no venous or arterial vascular invasion, nor extrahepatic metastases. MRCP diagnosed a Bismuth-Corlette type Klatskin IIIb tumor. For complete assessment of biliary involvement and surgical planning, in addition to the Bismuth-Corlette classification, we took into consideration the presence of infiltration of the bile ducts for segment 1, documented at MRCP. Therefore, a left hepatectomy with en-bloc complete segment 1 resection, along with the main bile ducts and hilar lymphadenectomy, was considered best suited for achieving curative resection in this case. After an uneventful postoperative course, the patient was discharged in the 12th postoperative day. Currently, the patient is disease-free after 84 months. We consider that the long-term recurrence free survival was favored by the complete segment 1 resection. Therefore, for complete assessment of biliary involvement in Klatskin tumor, we recommend that in addition to Bismuth-Corlette classification, infiltration of the bile duct for segment 1 should always be evaluated. If present, the entire segment 1 should be removed for best oncological results.