RF-assisted cystectomy and pericystectomy: a new technique in the treatment of liver hydatid disease.

BACKGROUND Radiofrequency (RF) energy has been used for ablation and resection of liver tumors. PURPOSE To present a new technique for the treatment of liver hydatid cyst disease. MATERIAL AND METHODS Two patients with liver hydatid disease treated with RF energy cauterization and surgical resection are presented. Cystectomy was performed in a female patient aged 35 years and pericystectomy was carried out in another female patient aged 55 years using RF energy cauterization. Blood was not needed during the operation. RITA System (RITA Model 1500 RF Generator, RITA Medical Systems, Inc., USA) was used during the procedure. CONCLUSION Cystectomy and pericystectomy in liver hydatid disease can be successfully performed with the assistance of RF energy.