Transcatheter hepatic arterial embolization followed by hepatic resection for the spontaneous rupture of hepatocellular carcinoma.

In three cases of the spontaneous rupture of hepatocellular carcinoma, emergent transcatheter hepatic arterial embolization was performed for controlling the intraperitoneal hemorrhage. No more transfusions were required after embolization. Operation was carried out on the 10th, 5th, and 5th day, respectively, after liver function studies returned to the pre-embolization level. Hepatic resection of left hemi-hepatectomy was performed in Case 1, and segmentectomy in Case 2 and Case 3 each. Transcatheter hepatic arterial embolization followed by hepatic resection is a rational treatment in the management of the spontaneous rupture of hepatocellular carcinoma.