Role of ERCP in The Management of Biliary Complications of Hepatic Hydatid Cysts

Hepatic hydatid cysts, caused by Echinococcus granulosus, frequently complicate via rupture into the biliary tract, presenting a major therapeutic challenge. This retrospective study (2019–2023) evaluated the efficacy of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with endoscopic sphincterotomy in managing eight patients with cystobiliary fistulization. All patients presented with acute cholangitis and cholestasis. Endoscopic extraction of hydatid material was universally successful, leading to the resolution of jaundice within 5 to 12 days. No post-procedural complications were observed. The study concludes that ERCP is a highly effective, safe, and minimally invasive first-line treatment for biliary complications of hepatic hydatid disease, superior to traditional surgery.