Measurement of Total Liver Volume Using the Energy Expenditure: A New Formula

Background The assessment of liver volume (LV) is important before surgical resection or transplantation to reduce the risk of hepatic insufficiency. LV is usually measured using computed tomography or with some formulas. The aim of this study was to develop a new dynamic formula to predict LV. Methods Using computed tomography, LV was calculated in 101 patients without liver disease. LV was correlated with patient metabolic status, calculated with the Harris–Benedict equation for basal energy expenditure (BEE). Activity energy expenditure (AEE) was also calculated. Using linear regression analysis, a new formula was derived and was compared with Heinmann’s, Urata’s, Emre’s, Vauthey’s, Yoshizumi’s, Yu’s, and Hashimoto’s formulas. Results A new basal formula was established: LV = (0.789 × BEE) + 272. It was found to be the most accurate ( R 2 = 0.39, p