Surgical treatment of benign hepatic tumors

Abstract

Background: The more liberal use of modern imaging techniques and the introduction of oral contraceptives have increased the number of benign liver tumors. Methods: This is a review of surgical treatment of benign liver lesions. Furthermore the diagnostic features, the natural history and the prognosis of hepatic hemangiomas, hepatocellular adenomas, focal nodular hyperplasia and nonparasitic liver cysts are elucidated. Results: Benign liver tumor are rare lesions. Most of the patients are asymptomatic until tumors exceed a diameter of 10 cm. Symptoms, when present, are often nonspecific and indication for surgery. Surgical treatment should be performed under the safest conditions possible. Selection of the particular surgical technique for resection requires consideration of the size of the lesion, the anatomic location, and the experience of the surgeon. Anatomic liver resections or liver transplantation are only needed if major blood vessels are involved or if the vitality of the remaining liver tissue is compromised. Conclusions: Surgery for benign hepatic lesions has been shown to be extremely safe in the hands of experienced hepatobiliary surgeons. Therefore it is warranted, when a final diagnosis can not be reached, to opt for a surgical approach.