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.