The efficacy analysis of laparoscopic treatment of pediatric urachal cysts

To explore the methods and outcomes of laparoscopic treatment for pediatric urachal cysts. A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 25 pediatric patients with urachal cysts treated at Anhui Children's Hospital from November 2014 to August 2023. In all patients, there were 24 males and 1 female, with an average age of 5 years. Among them, 9 cases presented with infection and abscess formation, which were initially managed with local anesthesia for abscess drainage. Surgery was scheduled after controlling the infection. All 25 patients underwent laparoscopic urachal cyst excision. All 25 surgeries were successfully completed without conversion to open surgery. The average surgery duration was 87.3 ± 42.4 min, with blood loss of 1.4 ± 0.5 mL, a catheterization time of 4.2 ± 1.9 days, and a postoperative hospital stay of 7.2 ± 3.6 days. Pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of urachal cysts in all cases. Follow-up ranged from 5 months to 2 years, during which all 25 patients had an excellent recovery. Follow-up ultrasound examinations showed no residual cysts or cyst recurrence. The abdominal incision scars were minimal, and the parents were satisfied with the treatment outcomes. Laparoscopic urachal cyst excision is a feasible and safe method for treating pediatric urachal cysts. It is effective, minimally invasive, and associated with rapid recovery. It can be considered as the first choice for the treatment of urachal cysts in children.