Percutaneous unroofing of renal simple cysts: Experience from one centre

To assess the efficacy of percutaneous unroofing (PU) for treating simple
renal cysts, compared with laparoscopic decortication and open surgery.
Patients and methods: From November 2009 to October 2010, 11 patients with 12 simple cysts in
renal units were managed by PU. All cysts were evaluated with ultrasonography and abdominal
computed tomography. A standard transurethral resectoscope was used to resect the cyst wall,
and the parenchymal portion of the cyst was subsequently cauterised. A drain was left in place
for 2 days. Success was defined as a >50% reduction in cyst diameter.
Results: At the 5-month follow-up, patients were asked about their symptoms and assessed by
ultrasonography. Of the 12 cyst units, eight were completely resolved, three were reduced to
<50% in diameter and one was persistent, close to the original size.
Conclusion: Simple renal cysts can be managed safely by PU, with a success rate of >90%. This
technique offers several advantages over open surgery, with a shorter hospital stay, improved convalescence
and reduced risk of complications. PU also avoids the multiple trocar sites, extensive dissection,
and technical difficulty associated with laparoscopy.
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