Abstract

Objective: In this study, we aimed to present our early experience with laparoscopic management of hepatic hydatid cyst (HHC) in children and analyze the feasibility and effectivity of this procedure.

Method: We retrospectively examined data derived from patients with HHC who underwent laparoscopic management. Demographic and clinical properties, serologic test results, radiological appearances, operative data, hospital stays, complications and follow-up findings of patients were obtained from medical charts. During surgery, one 10 mm trans-umbilical optic port and two 5 mm working port were placed, povidone-iodine soaked gauze was placed around the cyst, after aspiration and irrigation, the cyst was opened and all contents were removed.

Results: From August 2012 to December 2014, 12 HHC in 7 children were approached laparoscopically. The mean age of the patients was 10.2 years (range, 6-16 years). The HHC were mainly located in the left lateral lobe, and in four of them in were multiloculated. The mean operative time was 105 minutes (varied between 75 and 160 minutes). Two patients were converted to open surgery after identification of biliary leakage. The postoperative courses uneventful and no complication related to the laparoscopic technique occurred. The mean hospital stay was 4.2 days (range, 3-7 days). There was no recurrence during the mean followed up period of 20 months (range, 3-41 months).

Conclusion: Laparoscopic treatment of HCH in children is feasible and effective with favorable results, and offers all the advantages of laparoscopic surgery.