RIGHT HEPATOLOBECTOMY FOR PRIMARY MESENCHYMOMA OF THE LIVER*

Abstract

A case report of a large primary malignant mesenchymoma of the liver is presented. This tumor was successfully removed with normal liver tissue surrounding the tumor by right hepatolobectomy. The pathologic characteristics and clinical behavior of tumors falling into this general category are discussed. An attempt should be made to remove all solitary primary liver tumors regardless of their size unless obvious peri-hepatic malignant infiltration is present or remote metastases have been demonstrated. An adequate amount of normal hepatic tissue surrounding the tumor can be removed when the malignant potential of the tumor is not apparent from its gross characteristics by removal of the lobe of the liver containing the tumor. The advantages of approaching major hepatic surgery in the same manner that one approaches pulmonary surgery are discussed. These advantages are as follows: (1) Blood loss is minimal because the major vascular supply to the portion to be excised is controlled prior to the transection of the liver; (2) postoperative serum, blood, and bile accumulation are minimal; (3) the technic is simple, anatomical, and time saving.