Abstract

Purpose: In this study, we aimed to analyze the diagnostic and therapeutic features, morbidity and mortality of patients with hydatid disease. Material and methods: 49 children (24 boys and 25 girls) infected by Echinococcus granulosus had surgery for hydatid disease. All patients were evaluated for age, sex, admission time, symptoms at admission, diagnostic techniques, locations of cysts, treatment modalities, morbidity and mortality rate. Ultrasonography, computed tomography, Casoni and Weinberg tests proved the diagnosis. Albendazole treatment was given to 27 of the patients in postoperative period. Results: Mean ages of the patients were 10.5 years. The most common symptom on admission was abdominal pain. The most common localization of the cyst was liver in 33 patients (%67). Hydatid cysts were treated by conventional open surgery or percutaneous drainage. The form of surgical treatment was capitonnage and total excision of the cyst; and drainage of the cyst cavity in 47 patients (96%). Percutaneous treatment was performed in 2 patients (4%). There were no deaths. Recurrence rate was 4% during the follow-up period of 24 months (range, 8-60 months). Conclusion: Surgical treatment is successful in the hydatic cysts. Additionally, the study confirms the endemic state of the hydatic disease in our region.