BACKGROUND: Cystic Echinococcosis is a chronic parasitic infection, which is still an important problem in rural areas. Due to the development in technology, laparoscopic surgery has been introduced for the surgical treatment of hydatid disease of the liver (HD-L). The present study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of laparoscopic versus open surgery for HD-L in a comparative analysis. METHODS: Between January 2010 and March 2014, medical records of 83 patients who underwent surgery for HD-L were retrospectively analyzed. Patients’ demographic data, cystic features, operative details and postoperative outcomes were reviewed from the database. All patients were divided in two groups regarding the surgical approach; Group A (open surgery, n= 69) and Group B (laparoscopic surgery, n= 14). RESULTS: Both groups were similar regarding demographic variables and cystic features. In group B, mean operative time was significantly lower when compared to Group A (89±28 minutes vs. 144±19 minutes, respectively p<0,01). Hospital stay was also lower in laparoscopic group (3.38±0.7 vs 8.81±5.4 p<0,01). Overall postoperative complication was 19% and it was similar between groups. incidence of biliary fistula was 15% (n=13). CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic approach in the treatment of HD-L is safe and feasible. Additionally, it has some advantages including shorter operative time and hospital length of stay.