Multimodal analysis of the learning curve for pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy in a low-volume…

Cohort studySurgical endoscopy· Jul 2026

Multimodal analysis of the learning curve for pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy in a low-volume transplant center: a comparative cohort study.

Thanathorn Jearanaikulvanich, Asara Thepbunchonchai, Sunhawit Junrungsee … Worakitti Lapisatepun

Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic SurgeryCohort studyClinical practiceQ1IF 3.2

Surgeons reached proficiency in laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy within just 20 cases.

Multimodal analysis of the learning curve for pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy in a low-volume transplant center: a comparative cohort study.

Thanathorn Jearanaikulvanich … Worakitti Lapisatepun

Surgical endoscopy · Jul 2026 · Q1 in Surgery

Background

The adoption of pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy (pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy) has been limited by a perceived steep learning curve, traditionally estimated at 60-70 cases.

Purpose

This study evaluates whether "second-generation" laparoscopic surgeons can achieve proficiency more rapidly in a low-volume transplant center using structured training and standardized techniques.

Methods

We analyzed 29 consecutive, non-selective pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy cases performed by a single surgeon.

n = 70 cases

Results

20

cases

surgeons got proficient much faster than the traditional 60 to 70 case benchmark

n = 70 cases

More results

A three-phase learning progression was identified.

By Phase 3 (cases 21-29), surgical metrics stabilized with zero complications, even as case complexity increased.

Compared to CODRH, the pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy group achieved similar safety profiles but significantly shorter hospital stays (p < 0.05).

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Conclusion · 1 of 3

Pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy can be safely implemented in low-volume centers with an accelerated learning curve.

Conclusion · 2 of 3

For surgeons with prior advanced laparoscopic expertise, institutional proficiency may be achieved within 20 cases.

Conclusion · 3 of 3

These findings suggest that standardized "second-generation" approaches may broaden the accessibility of laparoscopic donor surgery without compromising safety.

Multimodal analysis of the learning curve for pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy in a low-volume transplant center: a comparative cohort study.

Multimodal analysis of the learning curve for pure laparoscopic donor right hepatectomy in a low-volume transplant center: a comparative cohort study.

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