A Study on Outcome of Management of Choledochal Cysts and Evaluate the Associated Complications

Background: Choledochal cysts (CC) are congenital dilations of the biliary tree, typically diagnosed in childhood, although they can be identified in adults. These cysts arise due to abnormal bile duct development, leading to various forms of dilation. If left untreated, choledochal cysts can lead to severe complications, such as biliary infections, liver cirrhosis, and cholangiocarcinoma. Surgical intervention is the standard treatment to manage these complications, with techniques like Roux-en-Y hepatico-jejunostomy commonly employed. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the outcome of management of choledochal cysts and evaluate the associated complications. Method: This retrospective observational study was conducted in the Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery (HBPS) department at BIRDEM Hospital, Dhaka, from January 2003 to January 2008. A total of 30 patients diagnosed with choledochal cysts were included. Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 22), employing descriptive statistics and chi-square tests where applicable. Results: The majority of patients (49.5%) were in the 0-15 age group, with a higher prevalence in females (60%). Type I choledochal cysts were the most common (82%), followed by Type IVA cysts (16%). The primary surgical intervention was complete excision of the cyst with Roux-en-Y hepatico-jejunostomy, performed in 89.1% of patients. Postoperative complications included wound infections (13.2%), pancreatitis (9.9%), cholangitis (3.3%), bile leak (6.6%), and malignancy (6.6%). Conclusion: Choledochal cysts predominantly affect younger females, with Type I cysts being the most common. Surgical management via cyst excision and Roux-en-Y hepatico-jejunostomy remains effective, though postoperative complications such as wound infections, pancreatitis, and bile leaks can occur. The incidence of malignancy in our cohort underscores the importance of early surgical intervention and long-term follow-up to prevent severe complications.