Surgery for deeply located hydatid cysts of the liver: a simple alternative

Gaining access to deeply located hydatid cysts of the liver using conventional surgical techniques may be accompanied by significant intra- and postoperative complications. In addition, obliteration of the cyst cavity is still a matter of controversy. We developed a novel method for easy access to deep hydatid cysts using a water jet dissector (Parenchimotom 01, TOSA, Pleven, Bulgaria). At pressure of 20 Bar using a 0.2 mm nozzle, a corridor is created through the liver parenchyma overlying the cyst; vessels and biliary duct are thus clearly displayed as linear structures traversing the corridor and are ligated and divided under direct visual control. The fibrous capsule of the cyst is spared by the jet. Following endocystectomy performed in the ordinary manner, the cyst cavity is filled with gelatin sponge; a passive tube drain is placed in contact with the liver incision. In allowing for a selective dissection of the liver parenchyma, the jet makes safe access to deeply located hydatid cysts possible. On the other hand, the gelatin sponge induces good fibroblast response and assists in rapid and effective obliteration of the residual cavity. This novel technique works well in our hands but more extensive studies are necessary before its final acceptance.