Precision Anatomy of the Congenital Biliary Dilatation

Abstract

Congenital biliary dilatation presents with diverse types, varying in the extent of dilatation and stenosis location, and no consensus exists regarding the optimal extent of resection, leaving decisions to each institution's policy. Recently, minimally invasive techniques have advanced, and in Japan, robot-assisted congenital biliary dilatation surgery has been covered by insurance since April 2022. Laparoscopic approaches, with their magnified view, enhance anatomical recognition, enabling more precise surgery and deepening the understanding of fine anatomy. This article explores optimal dissection planes based on detailed anatomy. Key anatomical landmarks for bile duct resection, and the characteristics of various surgical approaches. Additionally, it describes robot-assisted congenital biliary dilatation surgical techniques in relation to anatomical features.