Seven years experience of bronchogenic cysts.

Objective: To reveal the clinical, radiological, and surgical results of bronchogenic cysts.

Methods: Patients that underwent surgical procedure between January 2000 and June 2007, at Izmir Dr. Suat Seren Chest Disease and Thoracic Surgery Training Hospital, Izmir, Turkey with a radiological diagnosis of bronchogenic cyst were assessed retrospectively. Patients with confirmed histopathologically bronchogenic cyst (n=28) were evaluated for age, gender, symptoms, clinical and radiological signs, procedure of surgical treatment, and post-operative complications.

Results: There were 12 females, 16 males, and the mean age was 45.3 (25-73) years. Cysts were located at the pulmonary parenchyma in 53.5%, at the mediastinum in 43%, and at the intrathoracic extrapulmonary in 3.5%. There was no relation between localization and gender (p=0.276), and localization and the presence of symptoms (p=0.409). Frequently seen symptoms were dyspnea and chest pain. Cysts were infected in 11%, and intact in 89%. The average diameter of the cysts was 6.18 cm (2-12). Surgical complete resection was performed via thoracotomy in all patients. Mean follow-up time was 36 months, and there was no death. Minor postoperative complications occurred in 3 patients.

Conclusion: Radiology alone may not be enough for diagnosis of bronchogenic cysts in all patients. Early surgical intervention is suggested for the exact diagnosis and prevention of operative difficulties and complications.