Removal of large hydatid cysts with balloon-assisted modification of Dowling's method: technical report.

BACKGROUND

Delivery of hydatid cysts, especially large ones, without rupture is very important and there is still no 100% successful method.

METHODS

After the hydatid cyst was reached, starting near the surface working around the cyst toward the base, a Foley probe was advanced and, in the region of desired dissection, the balloon of the Foley probe was inflated, and adhesion bands were freed to allow dissection.

CONCLUSIONS

We believe our balloon-aided dissection technique is a method that increases the chances of delivering hydatid cysts, with no calcification and secondary infection, without rupture.