[Angiosarcoma of the liver as a cause of massive hemoperitoneum].

The authors give an account of an uncommon cause of haemoperitoneum--spontaneous rupture of an angiosarcoma-afflicted liver. During the urgent operation haemostatic stitches, partial devascularisation of the liver and tamponade were used. The patient died during the postoperative period due to prolonged haemorrhagic shock and developing multiorgan failure. The authors discuss possible methods of haemostasis of hepatic origin, and emphasize perihepatic tamponade (packing). Failure of the surgery of this case-history is discussed.