Abstract

To analyze the long-term outcomes related to minimally invasive surgeries (MISs) in the management of benign liver tumors (BLTs). A total of 388 pertinent publications were found after a comprehensive search across four databases. Of which, 47 full-text publications were examined after duplicates were eliminated using Rayyan QCRI and relevance was checked; five studies finally satisfied the requirements for inclusion with a total of 232 patients with BLT, and the majority184 (79.3%) were females. MIS to BLT was generally associated with a good outcome. Laparoscopic surgery for liver cysts and hepatic lesions consistently demonstrated improved quality of life (QoL), low recurrence rates, minimal morbidity, and excellent aesthetic satisfaction. Alcohol sclerotherapy effectively reduces cyst volume with minimal sessions and is a viable alternative for selected patients. However, complications such as surgical discomfort and hernias were more common following open surgery. In contrast, the long-term results of trans-arterial embolization (TAE) for hemangiomas were less satisfactory, with a considerable risk of complications such as biloma. Laparoscopic MIS for BLT was safe and effective, with low morbidity, improvement in QoL, and excellent aesthetic results. Alcohol sclerotherapy was another good option in selected cases, especially in simple liver cysts. TAE yields poor long-term results and higher complication rates, so its application should be cautious. However, the available evidence is sparse in terms of sample size and largely retrospective; further research is therefore needed, ideally through RCTs. Treatment must be personalized with the intent to minimize risk and maximize long-term outcomes.

Key words: Benign liver tumors, minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopic surgery, long-term complications, systematic review