Laparoscopic treatment of hepatic hydatid cysts

The recurrence rate after primary resection cystic echinococcosis: A meta-analysis and systematic literature review

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a chronic, complex, zoonotic disease caused by Echinococcus Granulose tapeworms. The disease may present with a variety of symptoms, ranging from asymptomatic to fatal. Surgical intervention is the primary treatment modality for CE. Despite advances in surgical techniques and chemotherapy, disease recurrence remains a major concern. Therefore, we aimed to determine the true rate of CE recurrence after primary resection and identify possible factors that increase the risk of recurrence. A systematic search of Medline, PubMed, Embase, and Cochran Library was conducted to identify studies reporting the incidence of CE recurrence after primary radical surgery. Data were pooled using random effect models. The disease prevalence was determined by calculating the ratio of CE recurrence and the total number of patients. A meta-regression was conducted to identify any potential factors linked to recurrence. A total of 38 eligible studies, with a total of 6,222 CE patients who underwent primary surgical removal, revealed a pooled recurrence rate of 8% (95% CI: 6%-10%). However, significant heterogeneity was observed (I2 p-value <0.001). Subgroup analysis by region showed the highest incidence of recurrence in European and Turkish studies, with rates of 11% (95% CI: 7%-17%) and 9% (95% CI: 5%-14%), respectively. The lowest recurrence rate was observed in Asian studies, with a rate of 4% (95% CI: 2%-7%). Moreover, the non-radical intervention has a recurrence of 5% (95%CI: 4%-7%), radical 7% (95%CI: 6%-9%), and studies that contained both interventions have 10% (95%CI: 6%-16%), P-value= 0.04. This is the first meta-analysis to evaluate the overall incidence of CE recurrence after primary surgical removal. The study also revealed a substantial degree of heterogeneity across the included studies and indicated possible risk factors for higher recurrence rates, such as the study's geographic area, type of surgery and the year it was published. These findings will help to guide future research in developing effective strategies to prevent or reduce CE recurrence and improve patient outcomes.

Optimized Strategies for Managing Abdominal Hydatid Cysts and Their Complications

Hepatic hydatid cysts are an example of a zoonosis with global distribution, but with endemic characteristics in certain geographic areas. Known since ancient times, this parasitic infection predominantly affecting the liver and lungs remains a challenge today in terms of diagnosis and the pharmacological, radiological, endoscopic, or surgical therapy. This study analyzed the complications associated with different procedures for treating hydatid cysts in 76 patients admitted to the County Clinical Emergency Hospital of Sibiu. Complications occurred in 18 patients (23.7%), with no significant correlation to age, gender, or residency (urban or rural). Patients undergoing open surgery exhibited the highest complication rate (61.1%) compared to those treated with other procedures. The most frequent complication was biliary duct rupture, occurring in 22.7% of cases. Our findings indicate that the presence of complications significantly prolongs hospitalization time [t df (75) = 12.14, p < 0.001]. Based on these findings, we conclude that the surgical approach for hydatid cysts should be meticulously tailored to each patient's specific circumstances to reduce the risk of complications and improve clinical outcomes.

Specialized Laparoscopic Devices in the Treatment of Hydatic Hepatic Cysts: A Retrospective Analysis and Review of the Literature

Background and objective While hydatid disease is associated with a high prevalence only in certain endemic areas, it can be encountered in any geographical region. The characteristics of this parasitic disease, and its implications during development, such as the risk of seeding, and the complications caused by cyst rupture, means that its therapeutic management should adhere to strict principles and may sometimes require approaches specially tailed for this type of pathology. In this study, we aimed to provide a comparative analysis of conventional laparoscopic techniques vs. treatment with specialized instrumentation in these patients. Methods Our study involved a retrospective evaluation of a cohort comprising 41 patients diagnosed with hepatic hydatid cysts, who underwent procedures with both conventional laparoscopic techniques and specialized instrumentation tailored for this particular pathology. Furthermore, we conducted a comprehensive review of the literature examining alternative types of laparoscopic instrumentation specifically crafted for the management of hydatid cysts. This review employed an extensive search utilizing PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Results The examination of cases within our study revealed a high prevalence of hydatid disease among male patients (63.41%) and a predominance of instances originating from rural regions necessitating emergent admissions (p<0.05). Notably, in 58.54% of cases, surgical interventions employed specialized instrumentation, with a notable discrepancy in conversion rates to open surgery favoring the standard approach: 12.2% vs. 2.44% (p=0.025). Additionally, the laparoscopic approach was associated with prolonged surgical durations compared to the dedicated technique (p=0.002), besides a higher incidence of postoperative complications (12.2% vs 7.32%). Furthermore, patients undergoing laparoscopic procedures with standard instrumentation experienced lengthier hospital stays (p=0.002). Our comprehensive review of the literature identified six distinct surgical methodologies utilizing specifically tailored instrumentation for addressing hydatid cysts. Analysis of these findings underscored a preference for single localizations and selective cases. Postoperative complication rates ranged from 6.66% to 22.22%, with conversion rates to open surgery reaching up to 23.33%, and recurrence rates observed to be as high as 7.81%. Conclusions The patented approach, which uses special trocars that provide stable anchorage and allow a safe puncture-aspiration, reaspiration, and fragmentation processes, has superior characteristics compared to the laparoscopic approach with standard instrumentation. Comparative analysis with other similar procedures described in the literature has shown similar results regarding the frequency of complications, with our technique being superior in terms of approaching multiple cysts and recurrence rate. It has been successfully applied even in unselected cases.

Mid-term Outcomes of Laparoscopic Total Cystectomy Versus Open Surgery for Complicated Liver Hydatid Cysts

Total cystectomy is a challenging procedure in patients with complicated liver hydatid cysts (HCs). This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic total cystectomy in patients with complicated liver HCs.

A systematic review and meta-analysis on the treatment of liver hydatid cyst using meta-MUMS tool: comparing PAIR and laparoscopic procedures

INTRODUCTION

There is an academic debate over surgical treatments of liver hydatid cyst disease. In this study, a systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out in order to evaluate the pros and cons of both PAIR (Puncture, Aspiration, Injection, Respiration) and laparoscopic techniques by considering the outcomes of liver hydatid cysts.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We designed descriptive Boolean queries to search two databases, PubMed and Scopus, to derive the articles published in the period of January 2000 to December 2016 in order to evaluate the outcomes of these research articles. The outcomes of laparoscopic and PAIR procedures include the rates of cure, postoperative complications, recurrences, and mortality, which were extracted, assessed, and used as their corresponding effect sizes.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven studies including a total of 2832 patients (PAIR group n = 1650 and laparoscopic group = 1182) were analyzed. In this meta-analysis study, a random effect model of correlations of outcomes (postoperative complications, mortalities, recurrences, and cure rates) of PAIR and laparoscopy procedures was used. The meta-analysis and the forest plots of the two procedures show that the PAIR approach is superior in terms of cure, complication, and mortality rates compared with the laparoscopy technique. However, the recurrence rate is low in laparoscopic approaches. Moreover, Egger's tests for determining publication bias and heterogeneity tests were also performed.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows promising trends toward an advantage of PAIR procedures in treatment of liver hydatid cyst in comparison with laparoscopic procedures. The PAIR procedure is superior to laparoscopy due to having a higher cure rate and lower complication and mortality rates; however, the latter has a lower recurrence rate.

Comparison of Laparoscopic and Conventional Cystotomy/Partial Cystectomy in Treatment of Liver Hydatidosis

INTRODUCTION

Hydatidosis is a zoonotic infection and treatment is mandatory to avoid complications. Surgery remains the first choice in the treatment especially for CE2-CE3b cysts. Open or laparoscopic approaches are available. However, comparative studies are limited.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data of patients who underwent cystotomy/partial cystectomy for liver hydatidosis between January 2012 and September 2016 (n=77) were evaluated retrospectively. Recurrent cases and the patients with previous hepatobiliary surgery were excluded. 23 patients were operated upon laparoscopically and named as Group 1. 48 patients operated conventionally named as Group 2. Demographics, cyst characteristics, operative time, length of hospital stay, recurrences, and surgery related complications were evaluated.

RESULTS

Groups were similar in terms of demographics, cyst characteristics, and operative time. The length of hospital stay was 3.4 days in Group 1 and 4.7 days in Group 2 (p=0,007). The mean follow-up period was 17.8 months and 21.7 months, respectively (p=0.170). Overall complication rates were similar in two groups (p=0.764). Three conversion cases occurred (13%). One mortality was seen in Group 2. Four recurrences occurred in each group (17% versus 8.3%, respectively) (p=0.258).

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopy is a safe and feasible approach for surgical treatment of liver hydatidosis. Recurrence may be prevented by selection of appropriate cases in which exposure of cysts does not pose an intraoperative difficulty.

Comparison of mid-term clinical outcomes of laparoscopic partial cystectomy versus conventional partial cystectomy for the treatment of hepatic hydatid cyst

Background:

The aim of this study was to compare the mid-term outcomes of open and laparoscopic partial cystectomy (LPC).

Methods:

The medical records of patients who underwent conventional partial cystectomy (CPC) and LPC for liver hydatid cyst from May 2010 to February 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Operative time, blood loss, length of hospital stay, post-operative morbidity, mortality and mid-term follow-up outcomes were evaluated.

Results:

Amongst 130 patients, 38 patients were underwent LPC and 92 underwent CPC. Blood loss and post-operative complications were similar in both groups. The mean operative time in the LPC and the CPC groups was, respectively, 95.4 ± 13.1 and 63.5 ± 15.6 min, which showed a significant difference between the both groups. The mean length of hospital stay in CPC group was significantly longer when compared the LPC group. The mean diameter of cyst in LPC group was 6.1 ± 1.1 cm and 7.8 ± 2.1 cm in CPC group with a significant difference. The overall complication rates were 13.1% in LPC group and 17.3% in CPC group without significant difference. The most common complication was biliary leakage and surgical site infection.

Conclusion:

LPC for the surgical treatment of liver hydatid cyst appears to be safe and effective method with low morbidity rates in selected patients.

Current status of diagnosis and treatment of hepatic echinococcosis

Echinococcus granulosus (E. granulosus) and Echinococcus multilocularis (E. multilocularis) infections are the most common parasitic diseases that affect the liver. The disease course is typically slow and the patients tend to remain asymptomatic for many years. Often the diagnosis is incidental. Right upper quadrant abdominal pain, hepatitis, cholangitis, and anaphylaxis due to dissemination of the cyst are the main presenting symptoms. Ultrasonography is important in diagnosis. The World Health Organization classification, based on ultrasonographic findings, is used for staging of the disease and treatment selection. In addition to the imaging methods, immunological investigations are used to support the diagnosis. The available treatment options for E. granulosus infection include open surgery, percutaneous interventions, and pharmacotherapy. Aggressive surgery is the first-choice treatment for E. multilocularis infection, while pharmacotherapy is used as an adjunct to surgery. Due to a paucity of clinical studies, empirical evidence on the treatment of E. granulosus and E. multilocularis infections is largely lacking; there are no prominent and widely accepted clinical algorithms yet. In this article, we review the diagnosis and treatment of E. granulosus and E. multilocularis infections in the light of recent evidence.

Evaluation and Comparison of the Early Outcomes of Open and Laparoscopic Surgery of Liver Hydatid Cyst

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Surgery is the mainstay for treatment of liver hydatid cyst. Different surgical procedures have been suggested, but it is important to select the most appropriate treatment to obtain the best results with the lowest rate of recurrence and minimal morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the early outcomes of open and laparoscopic surgery of hydatidosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, 75 patients with uncomplicated liver hydatid cyst were assigned prospectively to either groups of laparoscopic surgery (37, 50.68%) or open procedure (36, 49.32%) during the period of 2007 to 2012. Conversion to open surgery was required in 2 patients (2.67%), who were excluded from the study. Patients were followed for about 17.86±17.64 months.

RESULTS

Participants included 73 patients: 49 (67.12%) female and 24 (32.88%) male patients, with the mean age of 38.97±16.48 years. There was no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups with regard to the sex, the occupation, and the mean diameter of the cysts. Bilious staining of the cyst content was observed in 23 (35.94%) patients during surgery, and a maximum diameter of 91 mm was considered as a cut point for predicting postoperative fistula with 69.2% sensitivity and 41.1% specificity. The mean duration of operation, postoperative pain, the hospitalization time, and the time to return to work were significantly lower in the laparoscopic group. Postoperative biliary fistula, cyst cavity infection, and wound infection were not different between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic surgery seems to be effective and safe, with low morbidity rates for uncomplicated cysts in accessible segments of the liver.

The Comparison of 2 New Promising Weapons for the Treatment of Hydatid Cyst Disease: PAIR and Laparoscopic Therapy

BACKGROUND

To compare the effectiveness and safety for hydatid disease treatment, the 2 new minimally invasive therapies: laparoscopic and PAIR (puncture, aspiration, injection, and reaspiration) were compared by systematic meta-analysis.

METHODS

A comprehensive analysis of published cases from 1990 to 2014 was performed using PubMed database. A total of 231 publications on laparoscopic treatment of hydatid cysts and 298 publications on the PAIR treatment were identified. Thirty-eight studies involved 1230 laparoscope-treated subjects and 41 involved 2686 PAIR-treated subjects in this review. The effectiveness and safety of emphasis is placed on the recurrence, insufficient response, death, cure, and postoperative complications. Operation time and hospital stay are also discussed as new evaluation index. The stages of cyst are summarized to determine which stage is suitable for PAIR.

RESULTS

Clinical and parasitological cure occurred in 98.7% of patients undergoing laparoscopic intervention and in 97.5% of patients receiving PAIR plus chemotherapy (P<0.014). Recurrence occurred in 1.0% and 1.6%, respectively (P<0.087). Insufficient response occurred in 0.16% and 0.9%, respectively (P<0.009); 2 patients died in each group (P<0.594). Allergic reaction/urticarial/anaphylactic shock occurs in 0.14% and 4.24% of patients receiving laparoscopic intervention and PAIR plus chemotherapy, respectively (P<0.001). Infection/abscess (5.37% and 2.57%; P<0.001) and surgical-related complications (7.32% and 3.43%; P<0.001) were seen more frequently in laparoscopic intervention subjects than PAIR plus chemotherapy subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic therapy and PAIR intervention are shown to be safe and effective alternative for open surgery with suitable indication such as cyst type and location. They have different postoperative complication features. The biliary fistula/bile leakage was more frequent in laparoscopic intervention (P<0.001) and fever occurred more in PAIR plus chemotherapy patients.

Hydatidosis of the liver and posterior mediastinum

INTRODUCTION

Cystic echinococcus (CE) is an endemic zoonosis secondary to infection by the larval form of the cestode Echinococcus granulosus. An intermediate host, humans enter the organism's life cycle by exposure to infected canid feces. The liver is the most common location of CE while mediastinal hydatid cysts are rarely reported.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

We report a case of synchronous CE of the liver and posterior mediastinum treated sequentially using chemotherapy, percutaneous aspiration with injection of a scolicidal agent and re-aspiration (PAIR) and then staged minimally-invasive surgeries.

DISCUSSION

Synchronous CE involving the liver and posterior mediastinum is rare. The treatment of hydatid liver and mediastinal disease is multimodal including chemotherapy, percutaneous and laparoscopic or open surgical interventions. One option for controlled puncture of hepatic and mediastinal CE includes PAIR followed by surgery.

CONCLUSION

The sequential use of chemotherapy and PAIR followed by surgery provides another treatment strategy for management of CE. We believe this strategy may be used safely in locations without endemic CE, including most regions of the United States.

Predictive factors of recurrence after surgical treatment for liver hydatid cyst

BACKGROUND

Hydatid recurrence after surgery is about 10 %. It still constitutes a problem both in terms of pathophysiology and management of recurrence.

AIM

The aim of this study was to assess the management of abdominal hydatid recurrence after surgical treatment for liver hydatid cyst and to identify the predictive factors of recurrence.

METHODS

We retrospectively included all the patients operated on between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2012, in the Department "B" of Charles Nicolle Hospital (Tunisia), for abdominal hydatid recurrence. Sixteen men and 33 women, with a median age of 45 years, were included. For all patients, clinical variables and morphological and intra-operative characteristics concerning both the hydatid cysts previously treated and the recurrent cysts were collected. Surgical procedures were recorded as well as the immediate and long-term outcomes. Comparative studies were performed: "extrahepatic recurrence versus No," "peritoneal recurrence versus No," and "open approach versus laparoscopic approach." A univariate analysis followed by a multivariate analysis was carried out to determine predictive factors of hydatid recurrence.

RESULTS

Comparative analysis showed that laparoscopic approach, segments II and III localization, and postoperative complications during the first intervention were associated with a greater number of both peritoneal and extrahepatic hydatid recurrence. Multivariate analysis retained the laparoscopic approach as a predictive factor of both peritoneal recurrence (OR 5.5; 95 % CI 1.56; p = 0.008) and abdominal extrahepatic recurrence (OR 3.54; 95 % CI 1.08; p = 0.035).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic approach for the treatment of liver hydatid cysts was associated with a higher rate of extrahepatic and peritoneal recurrence than open.

Capsulorrhaphy in the management of liver hydatid cyst

INTRODUCTION

Hydatid disease is a major health problem in some parts of the world. There are several nonoperative and operative ways to treat hydatic disease. The aim of this retrospective study is to assess the rate of postoperative complications, mortality rate, hospitalization period, and recurrence for capsulorrhaphy method, and to compare it with other hydatic cyst management techniques.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An open surgical procedure using capsulorrhaphy technique was performed on 250 patients (130 men and 120 women) with uncomplicated hydatic cysts in the Northwest of Iran, between 1989 and 2011.

RESULTS

The patients stayed in the hospital between 4 and 10 days, with an average of 5 days. Of the patients, 233 (93.2%) were discharged without any complications, 9 (3.6%) developed a wound infection in the abdominal wall, and 7 (2.8%) developed pulmonary atelectasis. Those who developed an infection or an atelectasis stayed in the hospital for few more days for conservative treatments. One of the patients (0.4%) had external biliary fistula and bile leak, which was treated with surgery and Roux-en-Y cystojejunostomy. During follow-ups (13.2 ± 8.5 months), incisional hernias occurred in 5 (2%) patients and hydatid cyst recurrence affected 7 (2.8) patients. The mortality rate was zero amongst the studied patients.

CONCLUSION

Compared to other techniques in the literature, the results presented in the current work indicate that capsulor-rhaphy is an efficient method in terms of decreased postoperative complications, recurrence, and hospitalization period, and is a safe method with low morbidity and zero mortality rates.

World review of laparoscopic treatment of liver cystic echinococcosis--914 patients

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to provide a review of the world literature on the laparoscopic treatment of liver hydatid cyst.

METHODS

We conducted a literature search using PubMed, screening all English language publications on the laparoscopic treatment of liver hydatid cysts. Operative characteristics, perioperative morbidity, and clinical outcomes were tabulated.

RESULTS

A total of 57 published articles including 914 patients with 1116 hydatid cysts were identified. Of the resections done in the 914 patients, 89.17% were performed totally laparoscopically and 5.58% were gasless. The most common procedure was cystectomy (60.39%), followed by partial pericystectomy (14.77%) and pericystectomy (8.21%); the rest were segmentectomies. Conversion to open laparotomy occurred in 4.92% of reported cases (45/914). The common cause of conversion was anatomical limitations/inaccessible locations (16/45). The overall mortality was 0.22% (2/914 patients) and morbidity was 15.07%, with no intraoperative deaths reported. The most common complication was bile leakage (57/914). The postoperative recurrence was 1.09% (10/914 patients).

CONCLUSIONS

The laparoscopic approach is safe with acceptable mortality and morbidity for both conservative and radical resections in selected patients. Clinical outcomes are comparable to open surgery, albeit in a selected group of patients.

Laparoscopic Management of Hydatid Cyst of Liver with Palanivelu Hydatid System over a Period of 3 Years: A Case Series of 32 Patients

The aim of this article is to evaluate the role and safety of laparoscopic management of hydatid disease of liver using Palanivelu hydatid system (PHS)(1) with initial results. A prospective study of hepatic hydatid cyst underwent laparoscopic management using PHS, during the period from June 2008 to October 2010, in department of general surgery in a tertiary care institute. Selective patients were included in our study. Preoperatively 2 weeks and post operatively 6 weeks of Albendazole were given. All patients underwent surgery under general anesthesia. Hydatid cyst evacuation and omentoplasty were done with PHS system to prevent spillage. Cyst was irrigated with 2 % savlon. Drainage tube was kept near the cyst. There were 32 patients with 35 liver hydatid cysts operated. The mean operative time was 93.78 (70-180) min. Intraoperative complications were noted in two patients (6.2 %). Conversion was required in one patient (3.1 %). The mean duration of hospital stay was 3-10 days with an average of 5 days. There was no recurrence in mean follow-up of 3 years. There was no mortality with good subjective and objective cosmetic results. The laparoscopic cyst evacuation and omentoplasty using PHS are feasible and safe for treating the hydatid cyst of liver in selected patients. It aids early recovery with good cosmetic results.

SILS hepatectomy for hepatic hydatid disease: a case report

Single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) is being used with increasing frequency in the treatment of many conditions requiring surgery. Experience with SILS for hepatectomy is limited. This is one of the first reports of SILS hepatectomy in the treatment of hepatic hydatid disease. A 17-years-old female who has 89 × 59-mm cystic mass in the left lobe of the liver was admitted with abdominal pain persisting for several months. For treatment of the mass, SILS hepatectomy performed. Although complexity of the liver structure and the technical difficulties of SILS restrict its applications in hepatic surgery, the treatment of liver hydatid disease with SILS in selected patients is safe and efficient. Moreover, it allows a better cosmetic result and rapid recovery.

The role of laparoscopy in the management of liver hydatid cyst: a single-center experience and world review of the literature

Surgery is still the main modality in the treatment of hepatic hydatid disease. Laparoscopic methods, with their low morbidity, have gained prominence in many fields and, in some cases, have nearly replaced open surgery. In this report, a laparoscopic method for the treatment of hepatic hydatid disease is described, and the results in the 46 cases are presented and the published articles were reviewed. The method involves laparoscopic cystectomy, pericystectomy, and liver resection for hydatid disease. The postoperative courses of the patients were very comfortable and no complication related to the laparoscopic technique occurred. The postoperative parameters and the early follow-up results (average, 18 mo) are very encouraging. Laparoscopic treatment of liver hydatid disease is safe and effective in selected patients and offers all the advantages of a laparoscopic surgery. In experienced hands, laparoscopic pericystectomy have lower morbidity and recurrence rate compared with cystectomy.

Laparoscopic approach to liver hydatidosis: initial experience

INTRODUCTION

Hepatic hydatidosis is a pathology that has a worldwide distribution, and is frequent in some rural areas in Argentina. Surgical treatment still offers the best results. The laparoscopic approach is controversial because of lack of experience with this technique.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of the laparoscopic approach in this pathology and to present the experience obtained in a medical center in Argentina.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We prospectively evaluated patients with a diagnosis of non complicatedhydatidosis, over 15 years of age whose cyst had the following characteristics: unique cyst, size less than 5 centimeters, located in the anterior segments or easy access. Analyzed data were: sex, age, cyst localization, treatment, operating time, morbidity and mortality and recurrence.

RESULTS

Nine patients were operated using a laparoscopic approach. The cysts were localized in the segments iii, iv, v and vi. Six patients were operated with pneumoperitoneum and 3 with a parietal traction device, in all the patients the first approach was a laparoscopic PAIR (punction, aspiration, injection and reaspiration). Seven Mabit-Lagrot procedures were performed and 2pericystectomies. The operative time was a mean of 89.7min and a hospital stay of 52h. The morbidity was 22.2% and the mortality was 0%.Mean follow-up of 19 months showed no recurrences.

CONCLUSION

A higher number of patients and a longer follow-up are necessary to evaluate the efficacy of approach; the laparoscopic approach seems to be safe. Our results coincide with the majority of other publications.

Radical laparoscopic treatment for liver hydatidosis

BACKGROUND

There is no scientific evidence to show which surgical technique should be used in treating hydatidosis of the liver; nor is there consensus on whether laparoscopy should be used in hydatidosis, because of the risk of dissemination or anaphylaxis.

MATERIALS

We conducted a multicenter study of laparoscopic radical surgery for hydatidosis of the liver (LRSH). The main objectives of the study were to determine the feasibility of LRSH, to examine the associated morbidity, and to evaluate the associated recurrence rate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present report is based on a retrospective multicenter study of patients with hydatid disease of the liver treated by LRSH. The study period was from January 2000 to April 2012.

RESULTS

There were 37 patients (46 % male) with 43 cysts. The median age was 53.1 years. Median cyst size was 5.8 cm. The most common location of the cyst was the left lateral sector (62 %). The median number of trocars used was 4. Protective scolicide-soaked swabs were used in 57 % of patients. We performed 24 total closed cystectomies, 12 left lateral sectionectomies, and 4 liver resections. The median operating time was 185 min and the mean blood loss was 184 mL. The conversion rate was 8 %. Morbidity was 16 % and mortality 0 %. The length of hospital stay was 4.8 days. No cyst recurrence was observed after a follow-up of 30.6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the limitations and biases of a retrospective multicenter study, we believe that LRSH is feasible in favorable segments but is technically demanding. The low morbidity and absence of recurrence suggest that LRSH should be performed whenever feasible.

Open or laparoscopic treatment for hydatid disease of the liver? A 10-year single-institution experience

Background

Selection of the most appropriate treatment to obtain the lowest morbidity, mortality, and recurrence rates is mandatory for hydatid disease of the liver. This study evaluated the results of laparoscopic treatment (compared with the open approach) in the context of a 10-year single-institution experience.

Methods

Between January 1998 and January 2008, 333 patients with hydatid disease of the liver underwent surgery in the authors’ department. Only the following aspects were considered as selection criteria for laparoscopic surgery: liver cyst not located in segment 1 or 7, with corticalization on the surface and no evidence of intrabiliary rupture. Of 62 patients who underwent laparoscopic treatment, 3 required conversion to open surgery. The remaining 59 patients (group 1) were analyzed. During the same period, 271 patients with hepatic hydatid disease underwent conventional surgery, but only 172 records were compatible with the criteria for the laparoscopic approach and the respective patients were retrospectively reviewed (group 2).

Results

Conversion to open surgery occurred in three cases (4.84 %). The mean cyst diameter was 6.62 cm (range, 2–15 cm) in group 1 and 7.23 cm (range, 2–18 cm) in group 2 (p = 0.699). The mean operative time was 72 min (range, 45–140 min) in group 1 and 65 min (range, 35–120 min) in group 2 (p < 0.001). The general complication rate and abdominal wound complication rate were respectively 0 % and 0 % in group 1 (p = 0.023) compared with 5.23 and 8.72 % in group 2 (p = 0.015). The mean hospital stay was 6.42 days (range, 1–21 days) in group 1 and 11.7 days (range, 4–80 days) in group 2 (p < 0.001). The mean follow-up period was 24.2 months (range, 6–32 months) in group 1 and 28.4 months (range, 6–40 months) in group 2. No recurrences were observed in either group during this period.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic surgery provides a safe and efficacious approach for almost all types of hepatic hydatid cysts. Large, prospective, randomized trials are needed to confirm its superiority.

Laparoscopic transperitoneal partial nephrectomy for renal hydatid cyst: a case report

A 29-year-old female patient with an isolated hydatid cyst in the lower pole of the left kidney presented with a history of weight loss and cloudy, foul-smelling urine. Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy was performed, at which the cyst was removed en bloc. On the fifth postoperative day, she was discharged without any complication. Nine months postoperatively, a computed tomography scan revealed no recurrence of hydatidosis.

Laparoscopic treatment of hepatic hydatid disease

BACKGROUND

  Hepatic hydatid disease is now rare in Australasia. However, it remains a significant problem in endemic areas. Many cases are now managed using minimally invasive techniques and this paper reviews the current status of laparoscopic approaches to hepatic hydatid disease.

METHODS

  A Medline data search was performed using the search terms of Ecchinococcos, laparoscopy, hepatectomy and pericystectomy. All publications from all publication years, including foreign language publications, were included.

RESULTS

  Eight series have been published comprising five or more patients, with most utilizing techniques of laparoscopic cystectomy. All series managed Gharbi cyst types I-IV, and median operative times were between 60 and 82 min. Seven conversions were reported (3%) for problems with access or bleeding. There was one reported fatality, and between 5% and 45% (median 13%) of patients developed complications. Three cases of anaphylaxis were reported and 14 cases of bile fistula were reported (median incidence: 6%). Hospital stays were between 3 and 10 days (median stay: 3.5 days). Two series report recurrences (recurrence rates of 3% and 4%) and these were in patients not treated with preoperative albendazole.

CONCLUSION

  Laparoscopic surgical techniques have been successfully applied to the treatment of hepatic hydatid cysts. While the uptake of these procedures is limited to areas of high prevalence and units with a specific interest, laparoscopic surgery is now one of the management options available to treat hepatic hydatid disease.

The pattern of hydatid disease-a retrospective study from himachal pradesh, India

Hydatid disease is a common but little studied disease in Himachal Pradesh, India. This is a retrospective study from the Lady Willingdon Hospital, Manali. 115 patients presenting from April 1996 to March 2007 were included. Outcome measures were mortality and morbidity. 70 patients were female and 46 were male. (One female patient was operated on twice). 78% (n = 90) of the occurrences were hepatic. There were other varied sites. There were fourteen pulmonary hydatids. All patients underwent surgical cystectomy. An "AIR Technique" (Aspiration, Injection, Reaspiration) is described for scolicidal deactivation after March 2003 utilized in thirty two patients. There was no mortality. There were five documented recurrences in our series all of which occurred in cystectomy done without the AIR (Aspiration, Injection, Reaspiration) technique. Hydatid disease is a common disease in Himachal Pradesh warranting a high index of suspicion leading to an early diagnosis. A simple technique called the "AIR TECHNIQUE" (Aspiration, Injection, Reaspiration) is described.

Laparoscopic drainage of a hepatic echinococcal cyst: a case report

The Echinococcus granulosus tapeworm causes hepatic echinococcosis. It is endemic in the Mediterranean region, Middle East, and South America. Human infection is secondary to accidental consumption of ova in feces. Absorption through the bowel wall and entrance into the portal circulation leads to liver infection. This case involves a 34 y/o Moroccan male with an echinococcal liver cyst. His chief complaint was RUQ pain. The patient was treated with albendazole and praziquantel. His PMH and PSH was noncontributory. Patient was not on any other medications. ROS was otherwise unremarkable. The patient was AF VSS. He was tender to palpation in RUQ. Liver function tests were normal. Echinococcal titers were positive. CT demonstrated a large cystic lesion in the right lobe of the liver measuring 13.5 cm in diameter. The patient underwent successful laparoscopic drainage and excision of echinococcal cyst. Final pathology demonstrated degenerating parasites (E. granulosus) of echinococcal cyst.

Needloscopy-assisted transvaginal cholecystectomy

The reasons for hybrid surgery are various: endoscopic peritoneoscopy under laparoscopic visualization provides a safe way to improve pure natural orifice endoscopic surgery with less abdominal incision. Herein we are presenting a hybrid technique composed of advantages of needloscopy and natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES). Two women with symptomatic cholelithiasis have undergone successful needloscopy-assisted transvaginal cholecystectomies. Main principle of this approach is the ability of performing cholecystectomy procedure same as in standard laparoscopic cholecystectomy. In contrast, we get benefit of less abdominal trauma due to transvaginal endoscopic exposure, clipping maneuver, and removal of gallbladder. We believe that, trend of more minimal invasive surgery which created the idea of NOTES, gets benefit from hybrid techniques as an interval step toward NOTES when waiting for the ideal equipment and sufficient experience.

Radical vs conservative surgery for hydatid liver cysts: experience from single center

AIM

To compare the efficacy and safety of radical and conservative surgical interventions for liver hydatid disease.

METHODS

The study comprised 59 patients in two groups who had undergone radical and conservative surgical procedures for liver hydatid disease in our department between 2004 and 2009. Preoperative diagnostic tools, medical treatments, demographic and clinical characteristics, postoperative follow-up, and recurrence were compared in both groups.

RESULTS

This non-randomized retrospective study included 59 patients who had undergone liver hydatid disease surgery. The radical technique was used in 18 patients (mean age: 42.1 +/- 13.5 years, seven male, 11 female), and the conservative technique was used in 41 patients (mean age: 43.5 +/- 13.9 years, 17 male, 24 female). The follow-up period ranged from 3 to 58 mo. Although operative time was significantly shorter in the conservative group (P < 0.001), recurrence was significantly reduced in the radical group (P = 0.045). No statistically significant differences were found in terms of hospitalization duration, cyst count and size, location, postoperative complications, scolicidal solution usage, or follow-up duration between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

The more effective method for preventing postoperative recurrence is radical surgery. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for bile leakage in the early postoperative period may decrease the requirement for repeat surgery.

Pelvic hydatid (echinococcal) disease

OBJECTIVE

To study epidemiologic and clinical features of pelvic hydatid disease and discuss its management.

METHOD

A retrospective analysis of 11 cases of pelvic hydatid disease managed over 7 years and 8 months at the Maternity and Neonatalogy Unit, Tunisian Medical Center La Rabta, Tunis, Tunisia. All cases were identified from histopathologic reports.

RESULTS

The 11 affected patients had a mean age of 41.6years (range, 22-79 years), 6 had a history of surgery for hydatid disease, 8 presented for chronic pelvic pain, and 1 was admitted for acute surgical abdomen. On physical examination, 6 had a pelvic mass. An ultrasound examination suggested the diagnosis preoperatively in 6. All were treated surgically. Primary laparoscopy was performed in 5 patients. Unroofing (or partial cystectomy) was performed in 6 patients and complete cystectomy in 4. The postoperative course was uneventful in all cases. Recurrence occurred only in 1 patient, 6 months after initial surgery.

CONCLUSION

Pelvic hydatid disease is rare and its diagnosis often difficult preoperatively. The treatment mainstay is surgery. The laparoscopic approach seems to be safe and effective, and may increasingly replace laparotomy.

[Laparoscopic treatment of hepatic hydatid cysts: techniques and post-operative complications]

INTRODUCTION

We evaluate our experience in the surgical laparoscopic treatment of hepatic hydatid cysts with the same criteria that we use in open surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective study of 8 operated patients and their intra- and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

We performed the scheduled surgery on 7 patients; bleeding was the reason for conversion to open surgery in the remaining one. We made 4 complete peri-cystectomies, 3 de-roofing and 1 hepatic resection. Two patients had postoperative bile leaks: the first one had an external leak that needed an endoscopic sphincterotomy and the other developed an abscess that needed reintervention for drainage. This patient also had a right hepatic vein thrombosis that disappeared spontaneously. Finally, 3 patients had hypernatremia without clinical symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Many of the open surgery techniques for hepatic hydatid cysts can be performed laparoscopically, without any specific instruments. Our complications with laparoscopic treatment of hepatic hydatid cysts were similar to those of open surgery.

Giant hepatic hydatid cyst with sub-fascial extension treated by open minimally invasive surgery: a case report

INTRODUCTION

Hepatic hydatid disease can be successfully treated by a variety of modalities.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a case of a 60 year old male with giant hepatic hydatid disease who presented with a huge cystic mass in the upper abdomen. Diagnosis was confirmed by serology, ultrasonography and CT scan. The patient was treated successfully by open minimally invasive surgery with minimum breaching of the peritoneal cavity using a laparoscopic trocar to evacuate the cyst.

CONCLUSION

The use of a laparoscopic trocar through a small abdominal incision in selected patients with hepatic hydatid disease with subfascial extension can be a safe, minimally-invasive option of treatment.

Laparoscopic treatment of hydatid cyst of the liver in children. A report on 34 cases

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the safety and efficiency of laparoscopically treated liver cysts in children.

METHODS

From September 2001 to July 2004, 34 patients underwent laparoscopic treatment of hydatid cysts of the liver. All patients had chest x-ray, abdominal sonography, and hydatid serology. The different stages of the procedure were the same as in open surgery: puncture, aspiration, injection of scolicidal agent, reaspiration, removal of proligerous membrane, and resection of the dome.

RESULTS

The patients' mean average age was 7 years and 7 months (range, 3-14 years). The number of cysts ranged from 1 to 10 with a diameter of 40 to 150 mm (mean diameter, 65.5 mm). One case had a mesenteric associated hydatid cyst, another splenic hydatid cyst. The average length of hospital stay was 5 days (range, 4-14 days). No per- or postoperative complications were reported. At 12 to 45 months follow-up, no recurrence has been reported.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopy represents an excellent approach for the treatment of hydatid cyst of the liver in children.

Advances in liver echinococcosis: diagnosis and treatment

Echinococcosis or hydatid cyst disease is a zoonosis caused by the larval cestode Echinococcus granulosus. It consists of a parasitic tapeworm disease affecting mainly liver. Nevertheless, the disease might well spread to more unusual sites such as lungs and brain. The definitive diagnosis of liver echinococcosis requires a combination of imaging, serologic, and immunologic studies. Despite the fact that a number of scolecoidal agents have been developed against liver hydatid disease, the cornerstone of the definitive treatment remains surgery. Both the classic surgical techniques and the recently developed minimally invasive and laparoscopic methods target the eradication of the disease by simultaneously avoiding perioperative spillage and dissemination or recurrence of echinococcosis. The present article constitutes a review of the biology of the parasite as well as the epidemiology, diagnosis, and therapeutic options of the liver hydatid disease.

Percutaneous treatment of univesicular versus multivesicular hepatic hydatid cysts

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous drainage has been used successfully to treat hepatic hydatid cysts. This study aimed to analyze the results of this method in the treatment of univesicular and multivesicular hepatic hydatid cysts.

METHODS

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous drainage was used to treat 72 patients (44 women and 28 men; average age, 46.8 +/- 17.7 years) with hepatic hydatidosis. Of these 72 patients, 57 had one cyst, 7 had two cysts, and 8 had three cysts. Albendazole (10 mg per kg of body weight daily for 8 weeks) was administered to all the patients. Serial assessments included clinical and biochemical examinations, ultrasonography, and serologic tests for echinococcal antibody titers.

RESULTS

During the follow-up period, the mean cyst diameter decreased from 83.3 +/- 38.6 mm to 11.1 +/- 16.0 mm (p < 0.001) in the multivesicular group (27 cysts) and from 65.5 +/- 27.5 to 5.9 +/- 13.0 mm (p < 0.001) in the univesicular group (68 cysts). The final cyst diameter did not differ significantly between the two groups (p = 0.1). The findings showed that 81% of the cysts in the univesicular group and 63% in the multivesicular group disappeared (p = 0.12). The mean hospital stay was 4.8 +/- 2.9 days in the univesicular group and 6.1 +/- 4.7 days in the multivesicular group (p < 0.001). After an initial rise, the echinococcal-antibody titers fell progressively, and at the last follow-up evaluation were negative (<1:160) for 43 patients (94%) in the univesicular group and 19 patients (73%) in the multivesicular group (p = 0.03). Mild nonfatal complications were experienced by 24 patients (33%).

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous drainage combined with albendazole therapy is an effective and safe method for managing hydatid cysts of the liver that requires a short hospital stay. Disappearance of the cysts depends on cyst size. Multivesicular cysts have a more complicated course, a slower disappearance, and a higher incidence of positive echinococcal-antibody titers. Abscess formed after the procedure can be treated successfully by percutaneous drainage.

Giant Hepatic Hydatid Cyst as a Cause of Small Bowel Obstruction

Today, giant hydatid cysts are fairly rare even in endemic areas. We describe a case of an extremely large hydatid cyst of the liver that was causing massive compression of the neighboring organs, giving rise to a subocclusive syndrome of the intestine. After considering the various approaches available for the treatment of this disease, it was decided that radical surgery was still the best therapeutic choice, especially when extremely large cysts are involved. In particular, in clinical situations where it is difficult to perform radical surgical procedures, less aggressive surgery followed by drug treatment should be the treatment of choice.

Laparoscopic hepatic resection

BACKGROUND

Although laparoscopy in general surgery is increasingly being performed, only recently has liver surgery been performed with laparoscopy. We critically review our experience with laparoscopic liver resections.

METHODS

From January 2000 to April 2004, we performed laparoscopic hepatic resection in 16 patients with 18 hepatic lesions. Nine lesions were benign in seven patients (five hydatid cysts, three hemangiomas, and one simple cyst), five were malignant in five patients (five hepatocarcinoma), and four patients had an uncertain preoperative diagnosis (one suspected hemangioma and three suspected adenomas). The mean lesion size was 5.2 cm (range, 1-12). Twelve lesions were located in the left lobe, three were in segment VI, one was in segment V, one was in segment IV, and one was in the subcapsular part of segment VIII.

RESULTS

The conversion rate was 6.2%; intraoperative bleeding requiring blood transfusions occurred in two patients. Mean operative time was 120 min. Mean hospital stay was 4 days (range, 2-7). There were no major postoperative complications and no mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Hepatic resection with laparoscopy is feasible in malignant and benign hepatic lesions located in the left lobe and anterior inferior right lobe segments (IV, V, and VI). Results are similar to those of the open surgical technique in carefully selected cases, although studies with large numbers of patients are necessary to drawn definite conclusions.

Laparoscopic liver resection

BACKGROUND

This paper describes a 10-year experience of laparoscopic liver surgery, including several major hepatectomies for malignant tumours.

METHODS

Of 243 hepatectomies carried out between January 1995 and December 2004, 113 (46.5 per cent) were performed by laparoscopy and 89 were included in this retrospective study.

RESULTS

Twenty-four laparoscopic hepatectomies (27 per cent) were for benign disease and 65 (73 per cent) for malignant tumours, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in 16 patients and colorectal metastasis (CRM) in 41. Minor hepatectomy was performed in 51 patients and major hepatectomy (three or more Couinaud segments) in 38. Conversion to laparotomy was necessary in 12 patients and perioperative blood transfusion in eight. One patient with cirrhosis who underwent right hepatectomy for HCC with conversion to open surgery died 8 days after surgery. Major morbidity occurred in eight patients (16 per cent) having minor hepatectomy and in 11 (29 per cent) of those having a major resection. The 3-year overall and disease-free survival rates for patients with CRM (mean follow-up 30 months) were 87 (11 patients at risk) and 51 (6 patients at risk) per cent respectively. Corresponding values for patients with HCC (mean follow-up 40 months) were 85 (10 patients at risk) and 68 (5 patients at risk) per cent.

CONCLUSION

In experienced hands, the results of laparoscopic liver surgery are similar to those for laparotomy.

Hydatid disease of the abdomen and other locations

We present patients treated for hydatid disease in our hospital (in northeastern Greece) over the last 20 years. In the period from 1984 to 2003, a total of 135 patients (54 male, 81 female) were treated for echinococcal disease (age 15-85 years). In 111 (82.2%) patients only the liver was affected; 9 (6.7%) patients had concomitant hepatic and extrahepatic hydatid disease; and 15 (11.1%) patients had only extrahepatic disease. Clinical symptoms in patients with hepatic locations of the disease included abdominal pain localized in the epigastrium or right upper quadrant of the abdomen, tenderness, hepatomegaly with palpable abdominal mass, jaundice, fever, and anaphylactic reaction. All the patients were treated surgically. Surgical techniques included partial cystectomy and drainage, cystectomy and capitonage, cystectomy and omentoplasty, only drainage, left lateral hepatectomy, total pericystectomy, and laparoscopic pericystectomy. Rupture into the bile duct was managed by T-tube drainage or biliodigestive anastomosis. Symptoms and surgical treatment for extrahepatic cysts varied according to the location of the cyst. The median cyst diameter of all patients was 11 cm. The postoperative complication rate was 17.0%. Two patients died (1.5%). The median hospital stay was 18 days. The recurrence rate was 6.7%. The study suggests that treatment of this benign disease should be the less radical surgical technique combined with pre- and postoperative anthelmintic administration. The surgical treatment should be combined with careful use of scolicidal fluids and aspiration of the cyst to avoid contamination and minimize the risk of recurrence.

Surgical treatment of liver hydatid cysts

BACKGROUND

The surgical treatment technique for liver hydatic cyst (LHC) cannot be standardized, and the surgical technique should be tailored according to the extent of the cyst and any adjunct complications of hydatid disease.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients were treated with albendazole (10 mg/kg/day) for 15 days preoperatively. Total pericystectomy was performed in three patients (7%). Partial cystectomy and its modifications were performed in the remaining 41 patients (93%).

RESULTS

A total of 44 patients were operated on for LHC between December 1998 and October 2004 in our center. Patients were evaluated with ultrasonography and computed tomography scan to determine the extent of the disease and preoperative staging. Twenty-four (53%) of these patients were women and 20 were men (median age, 52.5 years; range, 19-81 years). The majority of patients (n=27) had 1 cyst, and the remaining 17 patients had multiple cysts. In four patients (9.1%), daughter cysts were found in the biliary system, and abscesses were present in three patients (7%). Biliary fistula was the most frequent complication (n=5). Three patients had wound infections. Follow-up was complete for 33 patients (75%). The mean postoperative follow-up was 11.9+/-10.8 months; there were four recurrences during this time.

DISCUSSION

The aim should be to provide complete drainage and obliteration of the cavity. Bile leak and biliary obstruction may complicate the postoperative course if bile leakage into the peritoneal cavity and obstruction in the biliary system are missed.

The diagnosis and management of benign hepatic tumors

Benign hepatic tumors include a broad spectrum of regenerative and true neoplastic processes. Because of advances in imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as well as progress in immunohistochemistry, accurate diagnosis can now be made in a large percentage of patients without surgical laparotomy or resection. This article will focus on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of focal benign lesions of the liver. Many of these tumors present with typical features in various imaging studies. On occasions, biopsies are required and/or surgical removal is needed. The most common benign hepatic tumors include cavernous hemangioma, focal nodular hyperplasia, hepatic adenoma, and nodular regenerative hyperplasia. In the majority of cases of benign hepatic tumors, patients are asymptomatic, and no treatment is indicated. The main indication for treatment is the presence of significant clinical symptoms or suspicion of malignancy or fear of malignant transformation.

Classification of hydatid liver cysts

A number of investigations advocate various classification systems for liver hydatid cysts. However, none permits predicting the treatment outcome or making clinical decisions regarding medical treatment; open surgery; punction, aspiration, injection, reaspiration (PAIR); or laparoscopy. An international hydatid disease registry employing an uniform nomenclature and consistent reporting methods would allow more rational comparison of different management strategies. TN(R)C (topography, nature, recurrent, complication) classification is a comprehensive system based on four criteria: location (T), natural history (N), recurrence (R) and complications (C) of the cyst. This pictorial review illustrates the classification and puts accent of its clinical usefulness. The TN(R)C classification provides a standardized description formula of every liver hydatid cyst, permitting multiple comparisons and analyses.

Totally Laparoscopic Pericystectomy in Hepatic Hydatid Disease

Hepatic hydatid disease is still a commonly seen problem in endemic areas as well as in our country. There is a wide spectrum of therapeutic modalities ranging from simple medical treatment to radical liver resection. Progress in laparoscopic procedures made it possible to consider laparoscopic approaches in selected patients with hepatic hydatid disease. The current laparoscopic approach seems to be limited to cystotomy and drainage. There are fewer reports on hepatic resections or pericystectomy in the literature. In this article we present a case of laparoscopic pericystectomy performed in a selected patient.

Risk for laparoscopic fenestration of liver cysts

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic fenestration is considered the best treatment for symptomatic simple liver cysts. Conversely, the laparoscopic approach for the management of hydatid simple liver cysts is not widely accepted because of the risk for severe complications. Despite improvement in imaging techniques, the probability of preoperatively mistaking a hydatid liver cyst for a simple liver cyst remains about 5%. Therefore, laparoscopic fenestration, planned for a liver cyst could be performed unintentionally for an undiagnosed hydatid liver cyst.

METHODS

From January 2000 to January 2001, 15 patients with a diagnosis of liver cyst underwent laparoscopy for fenestration. In all cases preoperative serologic and imaging assessment had excluded hydatid liver cyst. To further exclude hydatid liver cyst, preliminary aspiration of the cyst with assessment of cystic fluid characteristics was performed.

RESULTS

In two patients with presumedly simple liver cyst, hydatid liver cyst was diagnosed instead at laparoscopy by aspiration of cystic fluid. The procedure was converted to laparotomy with subtotal pericystectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of misdiagnosing a hydatid liver cyst for a simple liver cyst, especially in the presence of a solitary cyst, should be considered before laparoscopic fenestration is performed. Intraoperative aspiration of cyst fluid before fenestration can minimize this risk, thus avoiding severe intraoperative and late complications.

Echinococcus granulosus infection: the challenge of surgical treatment

BACKGROUND

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a worldwide zoonosis caused by larval stages of the cestode Echinococcus granulosus. Surgery, chemotherapy, and interventional procedures are the therapeutic options. Surgery can cure the patient if the parasite is removed entirely. However, the technical procedures are inconsistent and comprise partial liver resection or opening of the parasitic cyst and removal of the parasite. Laparotomy is the most common approach. In selected cases laparoscopic methods are successful. Retrospective studies outweigh prospective ones by far. However, proper management gives favorable results.

METHODS

We critically review the literature and present a brief summary of current surgical strategy and focus on issues relevant for surgeons: diagnosis, indication for medical treatment, indication for surgical treatment, surgical procedures, scolicidal agents, morbidity, mortality, recurrence, perioperative medication, standards.

RESULTS

All surgical procedures aim at the complete removal of the parasite. Liver resection and pericystectomy are procedures that resect the closed cysts with a fairly wide safety margin. A meta-analysis shows the best results regarding lethality (1.2%), morbidity (11.7%), and recurrence rates (2%) for resective operations. However, most surgeons consider these methods as too radical for a benign disease. Procedures that remove the parasite and keep the pericyst (=cystectomy) are easier to carry out than resective ones. The meta-analysis presented revealed a lethality of 2%, morbidity of 23%, and recurrence rate of 10.4% for these operations. Omentoplasty is the option of choice for the management of the remaining cyst cavity. Despite alternative procedures surgery is the treatment of choice. Supportive measures comprise the use of scolicidal agents and postoperative benzimidazole administration. However, a critical review of the literature disclosed a lack of scientific confirmation of established treatment modalities and procedures. The results of ultrasound imaging were classified and correlated to the developmental phases of CE.

CONCLUSIONS

Cystectomy and omentoplasty for CE should be the standard surgical procedure because it is safe, simple, and effective and meets all criteria of surgical treatment for hydatid disease: entire elimination of the parasite, no intraoperative spillage especially by using a cone, and saving healthy tissue. Pericystectomy should be used for peripherally located liver cysts that are surrounded by parenchyma only partially. Ultrasonic classification of the parasitic lesion should be used as a guideline for therapeutic measures.