Laparoscopic approach for total cystectomy in treating hepatic cystic echinococcosis

Background: The laparoscopic approach has been proposed for treating hepatic cystic echinococcosis (HCE) and has already been used in clinical practice, mostly for non-radical operations. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the feasibility of total cystectomy of HCE under laparoscopy (LS). Results: A retrospective review of the medical records obtained from 22 patients diagnosed with HCE between June 2009 and June 2013 and treated with an LS approach was conducted in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University. A total of 15 patients underwent total cystectomy of HCE using LS. The average time of surgery was 174 min (160–210 min). Intraoperative bleeding was 103 mL (80–200 mL). The mean duration of hospitalization was 7 days (6–15 days). Seven patients were transferred to open surgery (OS). For these patients, the average duration of surgery was 177 min (150–230 min). Intraoperative bleeding was 237 mL (160–350 mL), and the mean duration of hospitalization was 10 days (8–15 days). The most frequent postoperative complications were hydrops in the surgical area (two cases in LS and three cases in OS), and temporary bile leakage (one patient in the LS group). Recurrence was not seen in any cases in either group with a follow-up of 6–12 months. Conclusions: Total cystectomy of HCE appears to be safe and effective in selected patients with unique, small-sized, superficially located cysts. To establish precise recommendations about the technique and its indications, prospective studies are necessary.