Management of postoperative biliary strictures secondary to hepatic hydatid disease by endoscopic stenting.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The cases in the present study were reviewed retrospectively with the aim to demonstrate the characteristics of these strictures as well as the effectiveness of endoscopic stenting and to discuss the possible mechanisms of stricture formation.

METHODOLOGY

Thirteen cases of postoperative benign biliary strictures secondary to hepatic hydatid disease (HHD) surgery were diagnosed between 1989 and 1994. All of these cases had had surgery for HHD one or more times. Endoscopic stenting was performed in 11 of the cases. Eight cases were followed-up.

RESULTS

In 3 (29%) of the 8 cases, the stents were removed after a mean period of 35.6 months, and the patients were considered cured. These cases have been followed-up for 28 months. The remaining 5 cases have been followed-up for a mean period of 14.2 months. The overall morbidity was 18%, and there were no mortalities. The postoperative benign biliary strictures secondary to HHD were long, multiple, and located proximally. Due to these properties, surgical repair was not indicated for these cases.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic stenting is a safe method in the treatment of postoperative benign biliary strictures secondary to hepatic hydatid disease.