Surgical treatment of pulmonary hydatid cysts in pediatric patients

Hydatid cyst is a zoonotic infection that is caused by Echinococcus granulosus and alveolaris, and that can result in endemics in rural regions. Infections caused by Echinococcus granulosus are more commonly seen in our country. In this retrospective study, we aimed at discussing the experience we have accumulated on pediatric pulmonary hydatid cyst cases over the last 6 years. Between 1995-2001, in the Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery in Gaziantep University, 38 cases underwent 39 operations due to pulmonary and hepatic hydatid cysts. Of these, 24 were males and 14 were females, with an age range of 2-16 years. Operations were frequently performed via thoracotomy. Nineteen cysts were intact, and 26 were perforated. One case had sternotomy, another had sequential thoracotomy, and the rest of the cases underwent thoracotomy, which resulted in cystotomy-capitonnage. In the postoperative period, 2 patients had sustained air leakage, and 2 other cases developed skin infections. Average hospital stay was 5 days. After the operation, the patients received chemotherapy (albendazole 10 mg/kg/day) for 1.5 months. Early or late deaths or recurrences were not observed. We conclude that cystotomy-capitonnage is a successful treatment for pediatric pulmonary hydatid cysts, as it preserves the parenchyma. Chemotherapy in the postoperative period is beneficial in preventing the recurrences.