Results of laparoscopic treatment of hydatid cysts of the liver.

BACKGROUND

We have previously reported on the laparoscopic treatment of hydatid cysts of the liver. We now report the successful treatment of 18 cysts in 12 patients with a median follow-up of 12 months.

METHODS

The standard treatment in the open technique was performed laparoscopically. The main concern was to prevent spillage of the hydatid fluid, for which the puncture and evacuation of the cyst is carried under scolicidal agents cover using 1% cetrimide, thus decreasing the chances of recurrence.

RESULTS

In this group of patients we had one biliary leak that ceased spontaneously and one recurrence of hydatid cyst but not in the same lobe.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that laparoscopic evacuation of hydatid cysts is a successful operation comparable to the open technique, with the added advantages of the laparoscopic approach.