Percutaneous decortication of cystic renal disease

To assess the efficacy of percutaneous unroofing in the treatment of simple
renal cysts instead of laparoscopic decortication and open surgeries.
Materials and Methods: From November 2009 to October 2010 at our department, 11
patients with 12 simple cyst units were managed by percutaneous unroofing. All cysts
were evaluated with ultrasonography and abdominal computed tomography. If there
were no contraindications, cyst wall resection was performed. A standard transurethral
resectoscope was used to resect the cyst wall, and the parenchymal portion of the
cyst was subsequently cauterized. The drain was left in place for 2 days.
Results: At the 5-month follow-up, patients were asked about their symptoms and ultrasonography
was performed. From 12 cyst units, 8 were completely resolved, 3 were reduced
to less than 50%, and 1 was persistent to near its original size. Success was defined
as a more than 50% reduction in cyst volume.
Conclusions: Simple renal cysts can be safely managed by percutaneous unroofing with
a success rate of more than 90%. This technique can offer several advantages over open
surgery, such as decreased length of hospital stay, improved convalescence, and reduced
risk of complications. Percutaneous resection also avoids the multiple trocar
sites, extensive dissection, and technical difficulty associated with laparoscopy