[Congenital cysts of the choledochus]

We describe six cases of congenital choledochal cyst of the Toddani type I. All were female, with a mean age of 33.5 years (16-52). The onset of symptoms ranged 8-192 months (mean 92.8), with an unexpected finding. Ultrasound scan was performed in five patients, with two accurate diagnoses, one suspicious and two wrong results. In two cases a C.T. was performed and the diagnosis was confirmed in both. A cholelithiasis was associated in four cases. Four patients (66.4%) were treated by cyst excision, Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy and cholecystectomy, three of them as a primary procedure, and one more after failure of some derivative operations. All evolved well but one, requiring sphincterotomy and Wirsungtomy. Two patients (33.6%) were treated by cholecystectomy only, with a favourable evolution. Nevertheless, we emphasize the good results achieved with cyst excision and we recommend it as the procedure of choice.