Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in ruptured liver hydatid cyst

Mohamed Borahma1, Rajaa Afifi2, Imane Benelbarhdadi2

  • 1Department of Gastroenterology C, Ibn Sina Hospital, University Mohammed Vth, Rabat, Morocco. borahmamed@gmail.com.

Insights

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) effectively treats biliary fistulas caused by ruptured hepatic hydatid cysts. This minimally invasive approach offers a high healing rate, avoiding risky surgeries for this complication of hydatid disease.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Parasitology

Background:

  • Hepatic hydatid cyst disease can lead to serious complications, including communication with the biliary tree.
  • Surgical treatment of biliary fistulas resulting from hydatid cysts carries significant risks of morbidity and mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effectiveness of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in managing biliary fistulas secondary to ruptured hepatic hydatid cysts.
  • To assess the outcomes of minimally invasive endoscopic interventions for intrabiliary hydatid cyst rupture.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of clinical, laboratory, and imaging data for 16 patients with intrabiliary rupture of hepatic hydatid cysts.
  • Diagnostic confirmation using radiology and ERCP.
  • Therapeutic interventions included endoscopic sphincterotomy, balloon or Dormia basket extraction, stenting, and nasobiliary drainage.

Main Results:

  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was performed for diagnosis and treatment.
  • Hydatid materials were extracted using balloons (n=11) or Dormia baskets (n=5).
  • Biliary drainage was achieved via nasobiliary drainage (n=1) or stenting (n=1).
  • Fistula healing occurred in 80% of patients within a median of 6 weeks post-endoscopic treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is an effective treatment for hepatic hydatid cysts with biliary fistula.
  • Minimally invasive endoscopic management offers a successful alternative to surgery for this complication.
  • ERCP facilitates extraction of hydatid material and biliary drainage, leading to high healing rates.