Laparoscopic resection of the hepatic caudate lobe: enhancing surgical precision with inferior vena cava-centric approach

Hepatic caudate lobe tumor resection is challenging due to anatomical depth. This study presents a laparoscopic technique for caudate hemangioma, using the inferior vena cava (IVC) as a guide to improve safety and feasibility. A 34-year-old male with incidentally detected caudate hemangioma underwent surgery. Preoperative evaluations (normal blood tests, ICG R15 3.0%, Child-Pugh A) confirmed good liver function. Computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the diagnosis, and surgery was planned with IVC dissection. The surgery lasted 191 minutes, with only 40 ml of blood loss and no intraoperative or postoperative complications. Histopathological examination confirmed a diagnosis of cavernous hemangioma. The patient achieved an uneventful recovery, with the drainage tube removed on postoperative Day 3 and hospital discharge completed on postoperative Day 4. Laparoscopic resection is safe for caudate hemangioma with proper preoperative assessment and experience. IVC guidance minimizes blood loss, shortens operative time, and ensures favourable recovery.