Abstract:
We present a case of traumatic hydropneumothorax due to hydatid cyst rupture in a 10 year-old girl. The patient was suspected to have a bronchial rupture because of prolonged massive air leak and she underwent cystotomy via right posterolateral thoracotomy. The patient was readmitted with dyspnea and chest X-ray revealed a lung collapse 13 months postoperatively. Lung collapse was treated by using a Heimlich valve. Pulmonary hydatid cyst can be asymptomatic for a long time unless a complication occurs. Because of the high incidence of hydatid disease in our country, this condition should be considered in cases with hydropneumothorax. The use of a Heimlich valve may be a good choice in the management of persistent air leak and may reduce the need for surgery.