Research Note. One minute, intraoperative assessment of the viability of hydatid cysts using a simple reagent strip test

The aim of the current work was to evaluate the possibility of using a rapid and simple reagent strip test to investigate the viability of hydatid cysts intraoperatively, via testing certain biochemical parameters. Thirty eight HCF samples were processed and examined by different methods for determining the viability status. Using the reagent strip test in the current study, the highest significant level of glucose was detected in HCF samples with the highest viability % at pH 7.5 and the lowest significant level of glucose was detected in HCF samples with the lowest viability % at pH 8.5, indicating a likely correlation between glucose concentration and the viability of PSs. On the contrary, protein was not detected in HCF containing viable PSs and was found to be higher in HCF containing non-viable PSs, denoting the possible degenerative processes in such PSs. Haemoglobin was found in trace amounts in all of our samples. In addition, the strip test detected bacterial contamination in 8 samples and biliary leakage in 7 samples. Our results suggest that the simple reagent strip test can assist in providing fast, uncomplicated primary data regarding the viability status of the hydatid cysts. Thus, it may aid the surgeons to make informed decisions for further management and appropriate follow up to minimise the risk of post-operative recurrence.