Percutaneous unroofing of renal simple cysts: Experience from one centre

Objective: 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.