Enucleation after Embolization of Liver Failure-Causing Giant Liver Hemangioma

BACKGROUND Hepatic hemangioma is a congenital tumor of the mesenchymal tissues of the liver. While typically benign, these tumors can occasionally grow to sufficient size to cause a number of symptoms, including pain, severe hepatic dysfunction, or, rarely, consumptive coagulopathy. In such instances, surgical treatment may be warranted. CASE REPORT We present a case of a symptomatic giant hepatic hemangioma in an elderly patient who presented with impending liver failure. She was successfully treated with a combination of surgical enucleation and liver resection after preoperative arterial embolization. We also provide a brief discussion of current treatment options for giant hepatic hemangiomas. CONCLUSIONS Early referral to experienced surgical centers before the onset of dire complications such as severe hepatic dysfunction and liver failure is recommended.