Laparoscopic treatment of hepatic hydatid cysts with a liposuction device

We describe herein a surgical technique, whereby we use a liposuction device for the laparoscopic treatment of hepatic hydatid cysts (HHC).

Ten patients with 12 hepatic hydatid cysts were treated with this technique. All patients received pre- and postoperative antiscolecidal medications. The laparoscopic technique consisted of partial aspiration of the cyst fluid and replacement of the aspirated fluid with 10% Betadine. The Betadine solution was left in situ for 10 minutes. Evacuation of the cyst contents was carried out with the liposuction device. The residual cavity was unroofed by partial excision of the ectocyst. A drain was left alongside the cyst. No intra- or postoperative complications were encountered.

All patients were mobilized freely, were allowed to eat a regular meal 6 hours after recovery from anesthesia, and were discharged on the third postoperative day. All patients resumed their normal household and work activities by the tenth postoperative day. The patients were regularly followed up every 2 months for 2 years. At follow-up in the surgical clinic, no evidence of recurrence was noted either clinically, serologically, or by imaging techniques.

We conclude that the laparoscopic treatment of HHC is feasible and advantageous. We believe that the use of a liposuction device facilitates rapid and efficient evacuation of the viscid organic contents of the cyst and helps in the obliteration of the residual cavity.