To explore enucleation and histologic and anatomical characteristics for cavernous hemangioma of the liver.

The clinical data of 11 patients with hepatic cavernous hemangioma were analyzed retrospectively. Serial selective hepatic arteriography was performed. Samples of hepatic cavernous hemangioma were prepared to examine using transmission electron microscopy.

Blood supply of hepatic cavernous hemangioma might only originate from the hepatic artery. There were no hepatic lobules and biliary duct in hepatic cavernous hemangioma.

Cavernous hemangiomas of the liver can be removed more safely by enucleation than by hepatic resection. Enucleation is associated with fewer intra-abdominal complications such as bile leakage and massive bleeding.