Is Anatomic Lung Resection Necessary in Surgical Treatment of Giant Lung Hydatid Cysts in Childhood?

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study is to evaluate the results of parenchymal saving methods for giant lung hydatid cysts and to discuss the necessity of anatomic lung resection in childhood.

Methods: The patients under the age of 16 years who were operated between January 2000 and January 2017 due to pulmonary hydatid cyst were evaluated retrospectively (n = 200). In all, 32 patients who had giant hydatid cyst were included in this study. Parenchymal saving methods (cystotomy–capitonnage) were preferred and decortication was also performed for pleural thickening if needed. No lung resections were applied.

Results: Male patients were 53.1%. The mean age was 11.3 ± 3.2 years. The total number of giant cysts was 32. The average size of the cysts was 11 cm. Thirty seven point five percent of the cysts were perforated. Postoperative complication rate was 31.3%. No recurrence and mortality were seen during follow-up period.

Conclusion: Considering the high recovery capacity of lung tissue, a chance should be given to recover the existing infection, atelectasis, and parenchymal damage. Especially in areas where hydatid disease is endemic, children may be infected with the parasite again. For these reasons, we do not recommend resection with any indications.