Laparoscopic partial splenic resection in hydatid disease

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic partial splenectomy is a safe and effective procedure for splenic surgery. Parasitic splenic cysts are rare and there are few reports of their laparoscopic treatment. The general opinion is that spleens with parasitic cysts should be excised in toto to avoid accidental intraoperative opening of the cyst and possible intraperitoneal infection. METHODS: We present the first case of laparoscopic partial splenectomy in a 15-year-old boy with splenic hydatid cyst. In addition, we review the current literature to evaluate the results of different surgical techniques for the treatment of splenic hydatid cysts. RESULTS: The literature notwithstanding, we have not encountered any complications in 13 months' postoperative follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: In contrast to prevailing opinion, we find that laparoscopic partial splenectomy can be seen as an option to treat splenic hydatid cysts while preserving splenic immunologic functions and causing less pain and better cosmetic results.