Conservative and radiological management of simple renal cysts: a comprehensive review

Ultrasound-guided paravertebral nerve block anesthesia for percutaneous endoscopic laser unroofing treatment of symptomatic simple renal cysts-An innovative ambulatory surgery mode

Objective

This study was designed to evaluate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of percutaneous ureteroscopy laser unroofing as an ambulatory surgery for symptomatic simple renal cysts under multilevel paravertebral nerve block anesthesia.

Methods

From December 2015 to September 2017, 33 simple renal cyst patients who had surgical indications were enrolled. Under ultrasound guidance, the T10/T11, T11/T12, and T12/L1 paravertebral spaces were identified, and 7-10 mL 0.5% ropivacaine was injected at each segment. Then a puncture needle was placed inside the cyst cavity under ultrasonic monitoring. A guidewire was introduced followed by sequential dilation up to 28/30 Fr. The extra parenchymal portion of the cyst wall was dissociated and incised using a thulium laser, and a pathological examination was performed.

Results

Sensory loss to pinprick from T8 to L1 and sensory loss to ice from T6 to L2 were observed in all patients. None of the patients complained of pain during surgery. No serious complications occurred perioperatively. After the surgery, all patients recovered their lower limb muscle strength quickly, got out of bed, resumed oral feeding, and left the hospital within 24 h of admission. The pathologic diagnosis of all cyst walls was a simple renal cyst. The mean follow-up was 35.8 months. At the end of follow-up, the cyst units were reduced in size by more than 50% compared to the preoperative size, and no patient experienced a recurrence.

Conclusion

Multi-level paravertebral nerve block for percutaneous ureteroscopy laser unroofing as an ambulatory surgery mode is feasible, safe, and effective for the treatment of simple renal cysts in selected patients.

A Unique Presentation of an Infected Renal Cyst: A Case Report and Literature Review

Renal cysts are prevalent conditions and are often diagnosed incidentally. The infection of renal cysts is an uncommon presentation. It is even more rare in solitary simple cysts than in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). Patients with infected renal cysts can have variable presenting symptoms; however, almost universally, they have flank pain. Here, we report a case of a solitary renal cyst infection in the absence of flank pain, a relatively rare condition. A 60-year-old male patient presented to our emergency department (ED) for ongoing periumbilical/lower abdominal pain, chills, and high-grade fever. He was initially seen in urgent care and thought to have a urinary tract infection (UTI). He was discharged on trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX). He was hemodynamically stable in the ED and did not have flank pain. Urine culture showed Escherichia coli. Computed tomography (CT) showed changes concerning for possible early pyelonephritis of the right kidney area and an enlarged right upper pole renal cyst compared to previous imaging. The urology team was consulted, and the enlarging cyst was considered secondary to hemorrhage. The patient continued to have high-grade fevers and worsening abdominal pain during his stay despite being on culture-directed intravenous antibiotics. Consequently, the cyst was aspirated, and cultures grew E. coli with a similar antimicrobial susceptibility pattern as the one found in the urine. After the procedure, the fever and abdominal pain significantly improved. This case report describes a patient with an infected solitary renal cyst with a unique presentation. Imaging modalities can be misleading and delay the diagnosis. Appropriate source control via cyst aspiration and/or drain insertion is crucial for successful treatment.

Review of outcomes of using lower ethanol concentration (83%) in percutaneous ultrasound-guided renal cyst sclerotherapy in dogs

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous renal cyst sclerotherapy (PRCS) as a treatment for renal cysts is usually performed with a high concentration of ethanol (≥ 90%). This study reviewed cases in which a lower concentration of ethanol (83%) was used for the procedure in dogs.

METHODS

Records of cases of renal cysts treated by sclerotherapy using 83% ethanol in dogs were reviewed. Outcomes of the treatment were evaluated by comparing volumes of renal cysts before the procedure and the volumes after treatment, using ultrasound images with the volume reduction rates classified as follows: < 50% of initial volume (failed); ≥ 50% but < 80% of initial volume (partial success); ≥ 80% but < 95% of initial volume (great success); ≥ 95% of initial volume (complete success).

RESULTS

Out of nine dog kidneys, renal cysts sclerotherapy with 83% ethanol achieved partial success in one kidney, great success in four, and complete success in the other four. No side effect was observed. The mean of the volume-reduction rates was 90.00 ± 11.00 while the minimum and maximum reduction rates were 65% and 100%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The lower ethanol concentration (83%) is good for disinfecting kidneys in PRCS.

A Brief Review of Artificial Intelligence in Genitourinary Oncological Imaging

Genitourinary (GU) system is among the most commonly involved malignancy sites in the human body. Imaging plays a crucial role not only in diagnosis of cancer but also in disease management and its prognosis. However, interpretation of conventional imaging methods such as CT or MR imaging (MRI) usually demonstrates variability across different readers and institutions. Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a promising technology that could improve the patient care by providing helpful input to human readers through lesion detection algorithms and lesion classification systems. Moreover, the robustness of these models may be valuable in automating time-consuming tasks such as organ and lesion segmentations. Herein, we review the current state of imaging and existing challenges in GU malignancies, particularly for cancers of prostate, kidney and bladder; and briefly summarize the recent AI-based solutions to these challenges.

Percutaneous treatment of simple renal cysts with 24-h-interval ethanol sclerotherapy

Objective

To investigate the efficacy of 24-h interval multiple-session ethanol sclerotherapy for the treatment of simple renal cysts.

Materials and Methods

The study sample included 58 patients (mean age, 65.37 ± 11.95 years). We included 76 simple renal cysts that were treated with percutaneous aspiration with a minimum of two sessions of 95% ethanol sclerotherapy in a 24-h interval between sessions. Patients were evaluated at 1, 3, and 6 months after the intervention for the efficacy of the treatment. Treatment success was defined as a complete regression of a cyst or a > 50% reduction in its volume, with no recurrence of symptoms.

Results

The mean preprocedural cyst size was 72.98 ± 25.14 mm, and the mean preprocedural cyst volume was 205.76 ± 244.15 mL. The mean volume of ethanol used in the first sclerotherapy session was 62.76 ± 30.71 mL. The mean fluid accumulation in the cysts at the end of the first 24-h interval was 4.66 ± 7.13 mL. The mean quantity of ethanol used in the second sclerotherapy session was 26.48 ± 22.2 mL. A third sclerotherapy session was required in only 10 (13.2%) of the cysts. The mean follow-up period was 52.84 ± 37.83 months. The rate of complete regression was 97.4% for the whole sample at the end of the follow-up.

Conclusion

Ethanol ablation with 24-h intervals is a safe and effective treatment option in the minimally invasive percutaneous treatment of simple renal cysts.

Features of various methods of surgical treatment of kidney cysts

Background. According to foreign and domestic authors, a kidney cyst is one of the most common urological diseases and accounts for up to 2050%. Aim. To evaluate the results of various methods of surgical treatment of patients with kidney cysts. Materials and methods. An analysis was made of 124 case histories of patients who underwent inpatient treatment for symptomatic kidney cysts at the urology department of the Regional Clinical Hospital for the period 2016 to 2019. Also, an analysis of 50 case histories of patients who were hospitalized with the same diagnosis on the basis of the urological department of the emergency hospital for the same period. Results. Puncture methods of treatment were used only in patients whose cysts radiologically corresponded to categories I and II according to Bosniak. On the basis of the urological department of the emergency hospital, 50 people were operated on in this way, of which 22 (44%) women and 28 (56%) men. The mean age of the patients was 58.25 years. Punctures of cysts with evacuation of contents without sclerotherapy 3 (6%) cases, and puncture of cysts with sclerotherapy with 96% ethyl alcohol 47 (94%) cases. The average age of patients who underwent surgery in the regional hospital was 56.612 years. According to MSCT, cysts of category I according to Bosniak were diagnosed in 96 patients (77.4%), category II in 11 (8.9%), category IIF in 11 patients (8.9%), category III in 6 (4.8%). Laparoscopic excision of the cyst wall was performed in most cases 109 (88%), laparoscopic nephrectomy was performed in 1 case (0.8%), laparoscopic nephrectomy in 10 (8%) cases, retroperitoneoscopic excision of the cyst wall 1 (0.8%), open intervention by lumbotomy access 3 (2.4%), of which nephrectomy was performed in two patients, one patient underwent kidney resection. Conclusion. Surgical treatment of symptomatic kidney cysts was justified and necessary, as evidenced by the relief of symptoms and verification of cysts suspicious in terms of the likelihood of oncological pathology. Puncture methods of drainage and sclerotherapy are less radical, but justified in patients with high surgical risk. Excision of a cyst or resection of a kidney by laparoscopic access is an effective method of treatment that meets modern safety requirements for treatment.

Parapelvic Cysts: An Imaging Marker of Kidney Disease Potentially Leading to the Diagnosis of Treatable Rare Genetic Disorders? A Narrative Review of the Literature

Simple renal cysts are a common finding during abdominal imaging assessment. The incidence increases with age and it is higher in male gender. Parapelvic cysts are a subset of simple cysts that arise within the renal parenchyma, adjacent to the renal sinus, characterized by being generally single, larger, and incompletely surrounded by renal parenchyma. Noteworthy, parapelvic cysts are a rare and understudied condition which, although considered clinically insignificant due to the absence of influence on renal function, still have a controversial aetiopathogenesis. On the other hand, urological management and differential diagnosis have been thoroughly investigated. The aim of our review is to provide an overall vision on this rare condition, usually misdiagnosed and underestimated, on the basis of more recent data. An accurate differential diagnosis of parapelvic cysts can lead to the identification of treatable conditions such as Fabry disease, autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, polycystic liver disease and tuberous sclerosis complex disease.

Prediction of treatment response following ethanol sclerotherapy of renal cysts by computed tomography

OBJECTIVES

To investigate predictive factors of treatment response following ethanol sclerotherapy of large renal cysts via computed tomography (CT).

METHODS

Retrospective study reviewed 71 patients (61.0 ± 13.2 years; M:F = 32:39) who underwent pretreatment CT and were treated with sclerotherapy of a large (> 5 cm) renal cyst (mean volume: 279.8 cc) using 99% ethanol from January 2010 to February 2019. Patients were followed up at least two times, short-term (defined as < 6 months, median 2.1 months) and long-term (defined as > 1 year, median 15.5 months), via ultrasound or CT. Suboptimal response was defined as the volume of residual cyst > 20 mL in each follow-up. Predictive variables of radiologic findings and radiomics features were analyzed using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Suboptimal response rates were 33.8% and 18.3% at short-term and long-term follow-ups, respectively. In radiologic findings, patients with suboptimal response in the short-term follow-up showed a more frequent estimated cyst volume ≥ 270 mL (OR 14.8, 95% CI 3.9-55.9, p < 0.001) and sinus protrusion (OR 7.0, 95% CI 1.7-28.5, p = 0.007). Cyst volume ≥ 270 mL was also associated with suboptimal response in the long-term follow-up (OR 4.6, 95% CI 1.3-16.9, p = 0.021). When radiomics features were combined, the area under the curve increased from 0.83 to 0.86 and from 0.68 to 0.82 to predict suboptimal response in short-term and long-term follow-ups, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Greater estimated volume, sinus protrusion, and radiomics features of the cysts in pretreatment CT can help predict suboptimal response of renal cyst after sclerotherapy.

Perioperative characteristics, histologic diagnosis, complications, and outcomes of dogs undergoing percutaneous drainage, sclerotherapy or surgical management of intrarenal cystic lesions: 18 dogs (2004-2021)

BACKGROUND

Canine intrarenal cystic lesions (ICLs) are infrequently reported in the veterinary literature. Several treatment options have been described including cyst fenestration (partial nephrectomy/deroofing) +/- omentalization, sclerotherapy using alcohol as a sclerosing agent, percutaneous cyst drainage (PCD), and ureteronephrectomy. Information regarding presenting clinical signs, physical examination findings, histologic diagnosis and outcomes of dogs with ICLs treated by different methods is limited. Medical records of 11 institutions were retrospectively reviewed to identify dogs that underwent PCD, sclerotherapy, surgical deroofing +/- omentalization, or ureteronephrectomy for management of ICLs from 2004 to 2021. Six weeks postoperative/post-procedural follow-up was required. Cases suspected to represent malignancy on preoperative imaging were excluded. The study objective was to provide information regarding perioperative characteristics, complications, and outcomes of dogs undergoing treatment of ICLs.

RESULTS

Eighteen dogs were included, with 24 ICLs treated. Ten had bilateral. There were 15 males and 3 females, with crossbreeds predominating. PCD, sclerotherapy, deroofing and ureteronephrectomy were performed in 5 (5 ICLs treated), 7 (11 ICLs), 6 (6), and 7 (7) dogs, respectively, with 5 dogs undergoing > 1 treatment. Seven dogs experienced 8 complications, with requirement for additional intervention commonest. PCD, sclerotherapy and deroofing resulted in ICL resolution in 0/5, 3/11 and 3/6 treated ICLs, respectively. Histopathology identified renal cysts (RCs) in 7/13 dogs with histopathology available and neoplasia in 6/13 (4 malignant, 2 benign). Of 5 dogs diagnosed histopathologically with neoplasia, cytology of cystic fluid failed to identify neoplastic cells. Among 7 dogs with histologically confirmed RCs, 4 had concurrent ICLs in ipsilateral/contralateral kidney, compared with 2/6 dogs with histologically confirmed neoplasia.

CONCLUSIONS

Benign and neoplastic ICLs were approximately equally common and cystic fluid cytology failed to differentiate the 2. Among renal-sparing treatments, deroofing most commonly resulted in ICL resolution. Presence of concurrent ICLs in ipsilateral/contralateral kidney does not appear reliable in differentiating benign from malignant ICLs.

Relationship Between Sporadic Renal Cysts and Renal Function Detected by Isotope Renography in Type 2 Diabetes

PURPOSE

This study aimed to reveal the relationship between the volume of sporadic renal cysts and renal function in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred and seventy-one patients that underwent renal imaging and other routine examinations at the Shanghai Pudong Hospital were included in this study. The Gates' method of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was measured by ^99mTc-DTPA renal dynamic imaging in addition to the eGFR, calculated by the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation (CKD-EPI).

RESULTS

Our results showed that BMI, total iGFR, and eGFR showed significant differences between patients with T2D with or without SRC (p < 0.05). Spearman correlation analysis showed that cyst volume was positively correlated with Scr and gender but not iGFR (p > 0.05). The total iGFR positively correlated with eGFR (r = 0.83, p < 0.0001) and negatively with Scr (r = -0.78, p < 0.0001), age (r = -0.43, p < 0.0001), duration of T2D (r = -0.25, p = 0.001), and BMI (r = -0.21, p = 0.006) but not gender (r = -0.03, p = 0.668). The multilinear regression model revealed that gender (β = 0.346, p < 0.001), iGFR (β = -0.705, p < 0.001), and serum uric acid (β = 0.195, p = 0.032) were independent predictors of Scr. Moreover, we observed a significant increase in Scr in males (p < 0.05). Finally, we found that the split kidney function reflected by iGFR and related parameters such as time to peak (PTT) and half time of excretion (excrete t1/2) did not mutually distinguish from each other significantly whether they are measured in patients with renal cysts or in those without renal cysts (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our preliminary results suggest that in T2D, SRCs may be a renal complication of diabetic nephropathy. Although we found that the patients with renal cysts may display reduced iGFR, the volume of simple cysts seems not to exacerbate renal insufficiency. Isotope renography is a useful tool to evaluate the split kidney functions in diabetic patients who acquire single-side cysts.

Burden of Renal Cysts Imaging: A Survey of Patients among the Greater Plains Collaborative

PURPOSE

Renal cysts are a frequent incidental finding on cross-sectional radiographic imaging. While most cysts are indolent, individuals with such cysts are frequently monitored for interval growth and potential malignant transformation, which is ultimately rare. In this study, we aimed to assess patients' values and preferences (believes and attitudes) about renal cysts.

METHODS

We deployed a cross-sectional survey to a random sample of patients with a diagnosis of renal cysts who were identified by billing code and self-identification. We collected data about demographics, insurance status, family history and overall health, and characteristics of patients with renal cysts. We performed a binary regression analysis (adjusted for age, gender, family history of cancer and kidney disease, and treatment plan for renal cysts) to determine anxiety predictors in patients with renal cysts.

RESULTS

We included 301 respondents in whom billing code and self-identification corresponded; of these, 138 had renal cysts and 163 did not. In an adjusted regression analysis, there was a suggestion that a clear management plan (OR = 0.49, 95% CI [0.22-1.11]) (p value 0.08) may be associated with less anxiety and a family history of renal disease may be associated with more anxiety (OR = 1.94 [0.76-4.94]) (p value 0.17). Family history of cancer also did not significantly predict anxiety (OR = 0.54 [0.24-1.19]) (p value 0.13). All these results were not statistically significant and had wide confidence intervals of the effect estimates make the results imprecise.

CONCLUSION

Findings of this pilot study suggest a clear management plan for the renal cyst(s) management may be associated with a lower level of anxiety, thereby by emphasizing the importance of good communication, patient engagement and evidence-based guidance. More definitive, adequately powered studies are needed to evaluate this finding further. In addition, further studies exploring differences in imaging practices, patient symptomatology and patient engagement by different provider types would be insightful. Ultimately, tools to improve shared decision-making are needed to provide more patient-centered care.

Comparison of polidocanol sclerotherapy with laparoscopic deroofing in the management of pediatric symptomatic simple renal cysts: A long-term study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy and safety of percutaneous polidocanol sclerotherapy and laparoscopic deroofing in the management of pediatric symptomatic simple renal cysts.

METHODS

Forty-six patients with symptomatic simple renal cysts (cyst size ≥ 4 cm) were treated either with polidocanol sclerotherapy (group A) or by laparoscopic deroofing (group B) between December 2009 and October 2019. The patients were re-evaluated at 1, 6, and 12 months and annually thereafter.

RESULTS

Twenty-one patients were treated with polidocanol sclerotherapy (group A) and 25 patients with laparoscopic deroofing (group B). The mean follow-up period was 58.7 months (14-107) in group A and 57.2 months (12-118) in group B. Complete regression was seen in 19 (90.5%) and 24 (96%) patients in groups A and B, respectively (p<0.05). Partial regression was documented in one patient each in group A (4.8%) and B (4%). In one group A patient, a laparoscopic deroofing was performed due to sclerotherapy failure after 27 months. The operation time, postoperative hospital stay, and cost were significantly less in group A than in group B (36.3±8.4 vs. 96.9±19.1, 19.7±2.4 vs. 56.0±8.6, and ¥8173±1343 vs. ¥14119±2021, respectively; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Polidocanol sclerotherapy and laparoscopic deroofing were found to be equally effective interventions associated with minimal complications for pediatric symptomatic simple renal cysts. We recommend polidocanol sclerotherapy as the first option for children with symptomatic simple renal cysts and laparoscopic deroofing in cases of failed polidocanol sclerotherapy.

Radiologically guided percutaneous aspiration and sclerotherapy of symptomatic simple renal cysts: a systematic review of outcomes

Simple renal cysts are common benign lesions of the kidney with up to 4% of patients developing symptoms necessitating intervention including pain and haematuria. We conducted a systematic review of the literature to determine the efficacy and safety of aspiration-sclerotherapy of symptomatic simple renal cysts. A systematic review using Cochrane guidelines was conducted on published literature from 1990 to 2020. RCTs, cohort studies and case series meeting the inclusion criteria were reviewed and cumulative analysis of outcomes was performed. A total of 4071 patients from 57 studies underwent aspiration ± sclerotherapy for their simple renal cysts. 87.7% of patients who had aspiration with sclerotherapy demonstrated 'treatment success' with a >50% reduction in cyst size and complete resolution of symptoms. 453 minor, transient complications occurred (11.2%) whilst a major complication rate of less than 0.1% (4 patients) was reported. Pooled analysis of all available current literature demonstrates that aspiration-sclerotherapy is a safe and effective first-line therapy for symptomatic simple renal cysts. Although we are unable to compare those undergoing aspiration alone to aspiration-sclerotherapy, it is evident the use of a sclerosing agent is integral to treatment success; however, the optimum agent, volume, injection frequency, and dwelling time are yet to be defined. Cyst size should be considered when discussing treatment options; however, we conclude it reasonable for aspiration-sclerotherapy to be used in the first instance in all cases of symptomatic simple renal cysts. Furthermore, we propose definitions of treatment outcome measures in order to allow direct comparative analysis across future studies.

Sustained volume decreases in simple renal cysts after sclerotherapy using NBCA with or without hydrodissection

The present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of sclerotherapy using NBCA (Histoacryl Blue®; B. Braun, Melgungen, Germany), with or without hydrodissection, for the treatment of simple renal cysts. Materials and Methods: Patients who presented to an interventional radiology clinic for the diagnosis of symptomatic renal cysts which had previously been identified at an outpatient clinic were selected for inclusion in this study. A total of 28 patients were randomly divided into 2 groups, based on whether or not they underwent hydrodissection along with ultrasound-guided NBCA-based sclerotherapy. Sonographs were performed at 0, 7, and 180 days post-procedure to record the residual volume of the renal cysts and to determine the efficacy of the procedure. Results: A total of 32 cysts in 28 patients were treated with sclerotherapy, 18 (64%) females and 10 (36%) males. The average age of the patients was 61.8 years (range: 33-89 years). All patients reported an improvement in symptoms associated with the existing renal cysts at 7 and 180 days post-procedure, and at 7 days post-procedure a statistically significant reduction in cyst volume was observed (all patients: 96.8%; group A: 96%; group B: 97.6%). The reduced cyst volume was still observed 180 days post-procedure (all patients: 98.6%; group A: 98.2%; group B: 98.9%). There was no significant difference between the two treatment groups. Conclusion: There is a significant and persistent reduction in the volume of renal cysts, in addition to an improvement of the associated symptoms, after treatment with NBCA-based sclerotherapy, with or without hydrodissection.

Percutaneous nephrostomic decortication: a microinvasive surgery for posterior renal cyst

To assess the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of a modified process we developed in order to perform decortication surgeries for simple renal cysts through a percutaneous approach, 18 patients with simple renal cysts larger than 5 cm were treated with our new technique, from November 2016 to January 2019. All of the cysts were evaluated with ultrasonography and contrast-enhanced computed tomography. The Surgical procedure: as the standard mini-Percutaneous Nephrostomy procedure, a puncture was made directly into the cyst through the cyst roof under ultrasound guidance. After the inner cyst wall examination, the sheath was then retracted to just outside the cyst roof. The sheath together with the scope was used to detach the roof from the perirenal fat, after which the cyst roof was resected using a laser. A drain tube was left in the retroperitoneal space for 1-2 days. Subsequently, all patients were discharged 1 to 2 days post-surgery. Skin incision was less than 1 cm. No major complication was observed. The follow-up time ranges from 14 to 37 months. One case had an incompletely resected cyst with the cyst volume being decreased by more than 60%. This patient didn't receive any additional treatments during his follow-up. For all the other patients, the cysts had completely disappeared and no relapse had occurred. In conclusion, in the selected patients with a simple posterior renal cyst, our new technique is a safe and an effective option. It is also considered the least invasive decortication surgery for posterior renal cyst.

The preliminary experience of methylene blue assisted laparoscopy in the treatment of renal parapelvic cysts

Renal cyst is a common disease in humans and laparoscopic renal cyst decortication is the gold standard for treatment. However, specialized surgical skills are required for the treatment of renal parapelvic cysts. In this study, we describe an improved laparoscopic method for the treatment of renal parapelvic cysts involving the use of continuous infusion of methylene blue. Sixteen patients with renal parapelvic cyst were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent retrograde ureteral catheterization, with continuous perfusion of the renal pelvis using a solution of 0.2% methylene blue and saline, during laparoscopic decortication of the parapelvic cyst. In one patient, the cyst communicated with the renal collection system which was injured, but this was immediately repaired intraoperatively. All operations were successful, and none was converted to open surgery. There were no occurrences of persistent urinary fistula, bleeding, or other complications postoperatively. All patients were followed-up for 3-24 months, and results of postoperative imaging investigations revealed that all of our patients experienced either complete recovery or a greater than 50% decrease in size of the cysts. Our study demonstrates that methylene blue-assisted laparoscopic treatment is a safe, effective and practical method for the treatment of renal parapelvic cysts.

Long-term renal function in living kidney donors with simple renal cysts: A retrospective cohort study

Simple (Bosniak I) renal cysts are considered acceptable in living kidney donor selection in terms of cancer risk. However, they tend to increase in number and size over time and might compromise renal function in donors. To clarify their implications for long-term renal function, we characterized the prevalence of renal cysts in 454 individuals who donated at our center from 2000 to 2007. We estimated the association between the presence of cysts in the kidney remaining after nephrectomy (ie, retained cysts) and postdonation eGFR trajectory using mixed-effects linear regression. Donors with retained cysts (N = 86) were older (P < .001) and had slightly lower predonation eGFR (median 94 vs 98 mL/min/1.73 m2 , P < .01) than those without cysts. Over a median 7.8 years, donors with retained cysts had lower baseline eGFR (-8.7 -5.6 -2.3  mL/min/1.73 m2 , P < .01) but similar yearly change in eGFR (-0.4 0.02 0.4  mL/min/1.73 m2 , P = .2) compared to those without retained cysts. Adjusting for predonation characteristics, there was no difference in baseline eGFR (P = .6) or yearly change in eGFR (P > .9). There continued to be no evidence of an association when we considered retained cyst(s) ≥10 mm or multiple retained cysts (all P > .05). These findings reaffirm current practices of accepting candidates with simple renal cysts for donor nephrectomy.

Aspiration-sclerotherapy versus laparoscopic de-roofing in the treatment of renal cysts: which is better?

BACKGROUND

To compare the clinical efficiency between aspiration-sclerotherapy (AS) and laparoscopic de-roofing (LD) in the management of renal cysts through meta-analysis of comparative studies.

METHOD

A comprehensive literature search was performed by PubMed, MEDLINE, Ovid and Web of Science for relevant studies published up to January 2020. The statistical analyses were conducted with Review Manager 5.3.0 and Stata 15.1. The sensitivity analysis was also carried out to confirm the reliability of this Meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Our searches of literature generated 6 studies (1547 patients incorporated) comparing AS with LD in the impacts of renal cyst therapy. Of these, 6 studies contained 1106 and 441 patients who were treated with AS and LD, respectively. The outcome of this meta-analysis indicated that LD group was superior in symptomatic successful rate [Odds Ratio (OR): 0.28; 95%Confidence Interval (CI): 0.09 to 0.86; P = 0.03), radiological successful rate (OR: 0.06; 95%CI: 0.02 to 0.15; P < 0.01) and recurrence rate (OR: 6.08; 95%CI: 2.81 to 13.15; p < 0.01). Nevertheless, AS group had shorter treatment time [Mean Difference (MD):-51.10; 95% CI:-73.01 to - 29.20; p < 0.01]. No statistically significant difference was showed in the rate of complications (OR: 3.19; 95% CI: 0.39 to 25.88; P = 0.28).

CONCLUSIONS

In our meta-analysis, LD had higher symptomatic successful rate, radiological successful rate as well as lower recurrence rate than AS, while the treatment time was longer.

A Painless and Time-Saving Modified Technique for Simple Renal Cyst Treatment with Single-session Ethanol Sclerotherapy

Percutaneous puncture ethanol sclerotherapy is a simple, effective, minimally invasive, and inexpensive procedure to manage symptomatic simple renal cysts. We modified specific technical aspects to balance certain potential intraprocedural factors for ensuring minimal procedural pain and duration as well as maximal clinical therapeutic effects and evaluated the safety and efficacy of this modified technique. A total of 84 eligible patients underwent computed tomography-guided single-session ethanol sclerotherapy using the conventional (group A) or modified (group B) technique. In group B, the puncture route was modified from tansparenchymal to direct for reducing renal injury, and preinjection of low-dose intracystic lidocaine was used to control distending pain caused by ethanol injections; therefore, greater ethanol volumes could be injected for improving the resistance and contact of ethanol with the cyst wall, precluding the need for patient repositioning multiple times to decrease procedural duration. Visual analog scale score for pain and procedural time were significantly higher in group A than in group B. The complication rate was slightly higher in group A than in group B, but the success rate was comparable between the two groups. These results suggest that the modified technique is painless, time-saving, and injury-reducing and can thus improve medical care.

Laparoscopic or Robotic Deroofing Guided by Indocyanine Green Fluorescence and Perirenal Fat Tissue Wadding Technique of Pediatric Simple Renal Cysts

Purpose: To present the outcomes of the laparoscopic and robotic treatment of pediatric simple renal cysts with two novel modifications: the indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence and the perirenal fat tissue wadding technique. Methods: Between 2012 and 2019, 13 patients with solitary renal cysts were treated through minimally invasive approach. Preoperative work-up included ultrasonography and computed tomography or magnetic resonance. A cyst deroofing was performed in all cases. In the last 3 cases, the ICG fluorescence technique enabled a clear identification and safe puncture of the cyst dome. Five cysts were filled with perirenal fat tissue after deroofing. Results: Thirteen patients (9 boys) were treated through laparoscopic (6 patients), retroperitoneoscopic (3 patients), or robotic approach (4 patients). Median age was 8 years (5-15 years). The median cyst size was 70 mm (42-160 mm). Eight cysts were located in the right kidney. All cysts were progressive and symptomatic. Thirteen cysts (100%) were graded as type II according to the Bosniak classification. No conversion was recorded. The median operative time for laparoscopy was 50 minutes (35-90 minutes) and 85 minutes for robotics (65-120 minutes) including surgical and docking time. No intraoperative complications occurred. The median hospital stay was 2 days (36-96 hours). No residual liquid was detected on follow-up after deroofing and fat tissue wadding technique. Conclusions: Cyst deroofing is an effective and durable treatment for symptomatic simple renal cysts. Robotics enables excellent tissue dissection and ergonomics. The perirenal fat tissue wadding of the cyst seems to reduce the recurrence rate. The ICG fluorescence technique allows for better identification of the cyst and safer surgical procedure.

Foam Sclerotherapy for Cyst Volume Reduction in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: A Prospective Cohort Study

Rationale & Objective

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common inherited kidney disorder. Progressive increase in cyst number and size leads to kidney failure in a majority of patients. Large kidney cysts, although few, can be especially deleterious by impeding kidney blood flow and obstructing urine flow over a large region. Foam sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that may be used to ablate large cysts. We examined the effectiveness and safety of foam sclerotherapy for kidney volume reduction in patients with ADPKD.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting & Participants

Adults with ADPKD at a tertiary referral center in Toronto.

Predictor

Foam sclerotherapy.

Outcomes

Volume of treated kidneys and adverse events.

Analytical Approach

Treated and nontreated kidney volume, kidney function, tolerability, and symptoms were analyzed within each patient.

Results

We performed 77 foam sclerotherapy treatment sessions in 66 patients. Foam sclerotherapy was associated with a 21.8% volume reduction of the treated kidneys (n = 95; median, 1,138 [IQR, 801-1,582] mL before vs 891 [IQR, 548-1,450] mL after; P < 0.001), while the volume of the nontreated kidneys increased by 3.4% during the same time frame (n = 37; median, 655 [IQR, 352-998] mL before vs 677 [IQR, 371-1,164] mL after; P < 0.001). 4 (6%) patients had a higher measured creatinine clearance by at least 10 mL/min at least 12 months after foam sclerotherapy. 9 (14%) patients experienced self-limiting pain at the procedure site and 2 (3%) had cyst or urinary tract infection. Most patients with flank/back pain, abdominal pain, and abdominal distension had improvement in their symptoms.

Limitations

Small sample, observational data.

Conclusions

Foam sclerotherapy is a safe and effective procedure for kidney volume reduction and amelioration of compressive symptoms in select patients with ADPKD. Further studies are needed to assess its effects on kidney blood flow and kidney function and determine the subgroups of patients most likely to benefit.

Long-term outcome after flexible ureteroscopy with holmium laser for simultaneous treatment of a single renal cyst and ipsilateral renal stones

Objective

To assess the long-term outcome of simultaneous treatment of a single renal cyst and ipsilateral stones with transurethral flexible ureteroscopy (FURS) lithotripsy and internal cyst drainage.

Methods

Patients who underwent simultaneous treatment with FURS lithotripsy and internal cyst drainage in our institution between July 2014 and September 2017 were enrolled. The cyst wall was identified endoscopically and a 1–3-cm window was created in the wall using a holmium laser. The proximal end of a double-J stent was placed in the cystic cavity to facilitate internal drainage.

Results

Thirteen patients underwent simultaneous treatment. No intraoperative complications with Clavien grading score >2 were noted in any patients. Mean stone burden and cyst diameter were 1.6 (range: 0.9–2.5) cm and 5.8 (range: 3.0–7.1) cm, respectively. Stone-free rates after single and complementary procedures were 84.6% and 92.3%, respectively. During the mean 33.1-month follow-up period (range: 17–54 months), seven patients (53.8%) achieved full resolution of renal cysts, five patients (38.5%) maintained >50% size reduction, and one patient (7.6%) experienced recurrence at 18 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

FURS with a holmium laser may constitute a safe and effective alternative procedure for simultaneous treatment of a single renal cyst and ipsilateral stones.

Association between urologic malignancies and end-stage renal disease: A meta-analysis

AIM

Previous studies have suggested a higher incidence of urologic malignancies in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. However, incidence trends of urologic malignancies in ESRD patients remain unclear. The aims of the present study were: (i) to investigate the pooled incidence/incidence trends; and (ii) to assess the risk of urologic malignancies in ESRD patients.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Database from inception through April 2017. Studies that reported incidence or odds ratios of urologic malignancies among ESRD patients were included. Pooled odds ratios (OR) and 95%CI were calculated using a random-effect model. The protocol for this meta-analysis is registered with PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews; no. CRD42017067687).

RESULTS

Nineteen observational studies with 1 931 073 ESRD patients were enrolled. The pooled estimated incidence of kidney cancer and urothelial cancers (carcinomas of the bladder, ureters, and renal pelvis) in ESRD patients were 0.3% (95%CI: 0.2-0.5%) and 0.5% (95%CI: 0.3-0.8%), respectively. Meta-regression showed significant positive correlation between incidence of urologic malignancies in ESRD patients and year of study (slopes = +0.05 and +0.07, P < 0.001 for kidney cancer and urothelial cancers, respectively). Compared to non-ESRD status, ESRD was significantly associated with both kidney cancer (pooled OR 6.04; 95% CI 4.70-7.77) and urothelial cancers (pooled OR 4.37; 95% CI 2.40-7.96).

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates a significant association between ESRD and urologic malignancies. The overall estimated incidence rates of kidney cancer and urothelial cancers are 0.4% and 0.5%, respectively. There is a significant positive correlation between the incidence of urologic malignancies and year of study.

Simultaneous treatment of parapelvic renal cysts and stones by flexible ureterorenoscopy with a novel four-step cyst localization strategy

Objective:

To assess the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of simultaneous treatment of parapelvic renal cysts and stones by flexible ureterorenoscopy with a novel four-step cyst localization strategy in selected patients.

Patients and Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed 11 consecutive cases of parapelvic renal cysts with concomitant calculi treated by flexible ureterorenoscopy and laser lithotripsy (FURSL). Marsupialization was performed subsequently with holmium: YAG laser in our institution. Fragmentation was used to manage renal stones and a novel four-step cyst localization strategy was applied in each case for marsupialization.

Results:

There were no intraoperative complications. Two cases of cystitis were reported postoperatively. The mean operative times of FURSL and marsupialization were 23.6 ± 3.9 minutes and 29.1 ± 9.7 minutes, respectively. During marsupialization, seven patients underwent the first two steps of the new strategy, two patients underwent three steps and two patients underwent all four steps. The mean reduction in hemoglobin level was 4.7 ± 1.7 g / L (range 3-8 g / L). The mean length of hospital stay was 1.2 ± 0.4 days. During a mean follow-up duration of 18 months, all cases remained stone-free and there was no stone recurrence. Parapelvic cysts became undetectable in eight cases and decreased in size by at least half in three cases.

Conclusion:

With appropriate patient selection, FURSL and marsupialization with a four-step cyst localization strategy is feasible, safe, and effective in treating parapelvic renal cysts with concomitant calculi.

Randomized study of percutaneous ureteroscopic plasma column electrode decortication and laparoscopic decortication in managing simple renal cyst

Background

To assess the safety and efficacy of a novel technology referred to as percutaneous ureteroscopic plasma column electrode (PCE) by comparing laparoscopic decortication in the management of simple renal cyst (SRC).

Methods

Between March 2016 and June 2017, 53 patients with SRCs were randomized to divided into two groups, the PCE group (24 patients), or laparoscope group (29 patients). The operative time, blood loss, days of drainage, catheter, and hospital stay and complications were compared with the two groups. All patients were followed- up to 6 months after treatment.

Results

No patients had intraoperative complications such as hemopneumothorax, adjacent organ injury, infection or hemorrhage shock. In the PCE group and laparoscope group: the mean operation time was 34.1±8.2 vs. 58.4±16.7 min (P<0.05). The mean blood loss was 2.0±1.16 vs. 9.7±4.09 mL (P<0.05). The mean postoperative indwelling drainage tube time was 2.5±1.5 vs. 2.9±1.09 d (P>0.05). The mean intra-urethral indwelling catheter time was 2.1±0.88 vs. 2.0±1.15 d (P>0.05). The mean postoperative hospital stay was 3.0±1.7 vs. 3.7±1.53 (P>0.05). One patient in electrode group was suffered from rupture of the collecting system during the operation, and was treated by indwelling D-J stent. During follow up, no cysts recurrence was found.

Conclusions

Percutaneous ureteroscopic PCE decortication is a safe, minimally invasive and effective therapy to treat SRCs, with equal efficacy and advantages in shortening the operation time and reducing the amount of intraoperative bleeding compared with laparoscopic decortication.

A Complication of Percutaneous Sclerotherapy for Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation: Intravascular Injection and Cardiac Necrosis

INTRODUCTION

A congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) type III may become large enough to cause hydrops fetalis. In such circumstances, the fetus can be treated with open fetal resection, maternal betamethasone administration, or percutaneous sclerotherapy.

CASE REPORT

A 24 week gestation fetus with a CPAM type III was treated by percutaneous sclerotherapy using ethanolamine oleate (EO). The EO inadvertently entered the left atrium and ventricle with subsequent fetal bradycardia and demise. Autopsy revealed myocardial necrosis.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous sclerotherapy has been previously described in the literature for the treatment of microcystic CPAMs with secondary hydrops. This is the first reported case of an adverse event after fetal sclerotherapy.

Percutaneous ureteroscopy laser unroofing-a minimally invasive approach for renal cyst treatment

Most simple renal cysts rarely require therapy. When it grows to such a large size, regardless of the presence of symptomatology, surgical intervention is required. In this study, we explored a new approach called percutaneous ureteroscopy laser unroofing for treatment renal cysts and evaluated its safety and efficacy. 71 simple renal cyst patients with surgical indications were enrolled, including 6 patients with a peripelvic cyst and 5 patients coexisting ipsilateral calculi. Under ultrasound guidance, an eighteen-gauge needle was placed inside the cyst cavity, and a guidewire was introduced followed by sequential dilation up to 28 F. The extra-parenchymal portion of cyst wall was dissociated and incised using either a Thulium or Holmium laser, and a pathological examination was performed. Renal calculi were treated simultaneously. For peripelvic cyst patients, one end of a double-J stent was inserted into the cyst cavity to prevent auto-closure. Mean of 11.7 months follow-up, the results showed that the cyst was completely resolved in 53 patients, its size was reduced to less than 50% in 15 patients, and treatment failed in only 3 anterior cyst patients, suggesting that percutaneous ureteroscopy laser unroofing is an effective and less invasive alternative for treatment of renal cysts in selected patients.

Disappearance of Renal Cysts Included in Ice Ball During Cryoablation of Renal-Cell Carcinoma: A Potential Therapy for Symptomatic Renal Cysts?

PURPOSE

To retrospectively evaluate the effect of cryoablation of renal-cell carcinoma on nearby renal cysts with the goal to investigate the potential for an alternative therapy to treat symptomatic renal cysts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study population comprised 46 cysts (mean size, 12 mm; range, 5-43 mm) that were within or near the ice ball during cryoablation in 22 patients. Size change of each cyst was evaluated via enhanced CT or MR imaging before and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after cryoablation. Forty-one cysts were also followed after 12 months. Variables including positional relationship between the cyst and the ice ball were evaluated via linear regression analysis using generalized estimating equation models to determine which factors affected cyst shrinkage rate at 12 months.

RESULTS

Fifteen, 12, and 19 cysts were completely included in, partially included in, or excluded from the ice ball, respectively. The overall shrinkage rate was 62%, and 57% of cysts (26 of 46) had disappeared at 12 months. Only the relationship between the cyst and the ice ball was significantly (P < .001) associated with cyst shrinkage rate. Cyst disappearance rates at 12 months were 100% (15 of 15), 67% (8 of 12), and 16% (3 of 19) for cysts completely included, partially included, and excluded from the ice ball, respectively. Among the 22 cysts that disappeared at 12 months and continued to be followed, none recurred after 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

All renal cysts that were completely included in the ice ball disappeared after cryoablation, demonstrating the potential utility of cryoablation as an alternative therapy for symptomatic renal cysts.

Simple renal cyst and renal dysfunction: A pilot study using dimercaptosuccinic acid renal Scan

AIM

Little is known about the association between renal cyst and renal dysfunction. We evaluated the deterioration of renal function in patients with unilateral, large, simple renal cysts.

METHODS

Fifty patients with unilateral, simple renal cysts measuring ≥ 4 cm (cyst group) and 50 kidney donors (control group) were enrolled. Dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) renal scans were performed to calculate split renal function. The differences between split renal function were calculated and compared. Clinical factors affecting decreased renal function in the cyst group were assessed.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients in the cyst group was higher than the control group (59.1 vs 39.2 years; P = 0.001). Patients with renal cysts tended to be diagnosed with hypertension (P = 0.001), However, the two groups did not significantly differ in terms of the other characteristics. The median cyst size was 7.2 cm (range, 4.5-14.2), and 31 of the 50 patients (60.2%) in the cyst group demonstrated decreased renal function in the cystic kidney units (median: 5.8%; range, 0.2-33). Although there were no differences in split renal function (50.1% vs 49.9%; P = 0.629) in the control group, the relative renal function of the cystic kidney units were significantly lower than the contralateral kidney units in the cyst group (48.3% vs 51.7%; P = 0.001). The decrease in relative renal function (>8%) in the cystic kidney units was associated with a higher serum uric acid levels and higher RENAL complexity (P = 0.035 and P = 0.007, respectively).

CONCLUSION

A significant proportion of unilateral, large, simple renal cysts are associated with decreased relative renal function on DMSA renal scans.

Percutaneous Renal Cyst Ablation and Review of the Current Literature

Renal cysts are common and most often are discovered incidentally, but may require intervention if associated with pain, hypertension, or hematuria. Minimally invasive treatment options are preferred with numerous modalities available, including renal cyst ablation. This case report of a 61-year-old female describes the effective percutaneous drainage and endoscopic ablation of a simple parapelvic renal cyst for management of symptomatic renal calculus. Current literature regarding this surgical intervention and alternative methods is discussed.

Management of renal cysts

Background and Objectives:

Renal cysts have a high prevalence in the general population, and their estimated incidence increases with age. Renal cyst aspiration (usually with sclerotherapy) or open/laparoscopic decortication is a generally effective and safe method in the treatment of symptomatic simple renal cysts. The success rates of laparoscopic decortication and percutaneous aspiration-sclerotherapy were compared to assist in the decision making for the procedure.

Methods:

A total of 184 patients with symptomatic simple renal cysts were treated with either laparoscopic decortication in 149 cases or percutaneous aspiration-sclerotherapy in 35 cases. The follow-up period was approximately 35 months, and the symptomatic and radiologic success rates of the 2 techniques were compared retrospectively.

Results:

Laparoscopic decortication was found to have high success rates, a low recurrence rate, and minimal morbidity. Percutaneous aspiration-sclerotherapy is an outpatient procedure with a minimally higher recurrence rate.

Conclusion:

When a symptomatic cyst is encountered and treatment of the cyst is indicated, laparoscopic decortication is a more efficient method that offers better results than percutaneous aspiration-sclerotherapy.

The Effect of Renal Cysts on the Fragmentation of Renal Stones During Shockwave Lithotripsy: A Comparative In Vitro Study

PURPOSE

To assess the potential effect of simple renal cysts (SRC) on stone fragmentation during shockwave lithotripsy (SWL) in an in vitro model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The in vitro model was constructed using 10% ordnance gelatin (OG). Models were created to mimic four scenarios: Model A-with an air-filled cavity (suboptimal for stone fragmentation); model B-without a cavity (normal anatomy); model C-with a 3-cm serum filled cavity (to represent a small SRC); model D-with a 4-cm serum filled cavity (to represent a larger SRC). SWL was applied to 24 standardized phantom stones (weight of 2±0.1 g) in each model using a standardized protocol. Stone fragments were retrieved, then dried overnight at room air temperature. Fragmentation coefficient (FC) was calculated for each stone, for fragments<4 mm and <2 mm.

RESULTS

The OG in vitro model was robust enough for the proposed research. There was no fragmentation evident in model A as expected. The mean FC was 29.7 (±20.5) and 39.7 (±23.7) for <4 mm fragments (P=0.069) and 7.6 (±4.1) and 10.6 (±6.7) for <2 mm fragments (P=0.047), for noncystic and cystic models, respectively. The mean FC was 29.7 (±20.5), 38.8 (±26.2) and 40.7 (±21.3) for <4 mm fragments (P=0.213) and 7.6 (±4.1), 11.1 (±8) and 10.2 (±5.3) for <2 mm fragments (P=0.138), for models B, C, and D, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our in vitro experiment confirms better stone fragmentation associated with SWL in the presence of adjacent SRC.

[Endoscopic Ultrasound-guided Local Therapy of Pancreatic Tumors]

The development of curvilinear EUS has enabled EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration of intra-abdominal mass lesions. With the introduction of interventional EUS, this technology has undergone several modifications in order to be applied to clinical medicine. One of the potential uses of interventional EUS is the EUS-guided local therapy of pancreatic tumors. Various treatment modalities such as fine-needle injection, radiofrequency ablation, photodynamic therapy, laser ablation, and brachytherapy have been tried under EUS guidance. Some of these modalities are being applied clinically. These methods for EUS-guided local therapy of pancreatic tumors will be reviewed in this article.

Comparison between the use of 99% ethanol and 3% polidocanol in percutaneous echoguided sclerotherapy treatment of simple renal cysts

AIM

In this study, we compared and valued efficacy and safety of percutaneous echoguided sclerotherapy (PES) using 3% polidocanol with that using 99% ethanol in the treatment of patients with simple renal cysts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PES was performed for 65 simple renal cysts. Under ultrasonographic guidance the cyst was punctured using an 18 gauge needle. Sclerotherapy was performed with ethanol in 55% (36/65) of cases and with polidocanol in the remaining 45% (29/65). Patients were followed up with an ultrasound examination at 4 months, 8 months, and then at yearly intervals. A reduction of 50% or greater in cyst diameter was considered successful.

RESULTS

The median followup period for the ethanol and polidocanol groups was 24.6 and 22.8 months, respectively. The successful outcome ratio of the polidocanol group was significantly higher (90% vs. 61%, respectively) than the one of the ethanol group (P = 0.003). The partial regression of the ethanol and polidocanol groups were 6% versus 7%, respectively. The failure ratio of the polidocanol group was significantly lower (3% vs. 33%, respectively) than that of the ethanol group (P = 0.004). Neither infectious complications nor hyperthermia occurred in all treated cases. However, these methods are not completely free from symptoms. All these symptoms disappeared few hours after the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Polidocanol is a safe and effective sclerosing agent for renal cysts, with superior clinical results than ethanol. Therefore, polidocanol can be an alternative to ethanol in sclerotherapy of renal cysts.

Management of simple renal cyst in children: French multicenter experience of 36 cases and review of the literature

OBJECTIVE

The widespread use of renal ultrasonography has resulted in simple renal cysts (SRC) being discovered with increasing frequency in routine pediatric urological practice. Management of SRC, however, remains controversial. Most SRC are asymptomatic, are diagnosed incidentally, and have no clinical consequence. Our goal was to focus on management strategies for SRC in children with the support of our experience and a review of the literature.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature review was made of SRC in children since 1950, analyzing epidemiologic data, diagnosis, and management. In addition, a retrospective multicenter study was conducted from 1998 to 2009. Patients included presented with a unique SRC. Data recorded were patient characteristics (age, gender), symptoms, imaging features of the cyst (size, side, pole, and location), type of management, and long-term outcomes. To focus on management, two groups of patients were defined: primary surgical management and primary conservative management consisting of clinical and US follow-up. Our results were compared with the literature.

RESULTS

Thirty-six cases were included. Fifteen patients were symptomatic. Comparing the two groups, long-term outcomes were similar. The only significant factors were preoperative (age of the patient, diameter and location of the cyst): the bigger the cyst, the more likely it was to be exorenal, and the greater the likelihood that surgery would be performed (p = 0.006). Symptoms were not a significant indicator for surgery.

CONCLUSION

According to the literature and our experience, and considering the benign natural history of SRC and the similar outcomes whatever the treatment, primary conservative management is recommended for all cases. Surgery should be restricted to symptomatic large compressive cysts, increase in cyst size on follow-up, and uncertain diagnosis. Percutaneous cyst aspiration with sclerotherapy has not yet been used enough to ascertain its safety, and requires prospective evaluation.

Symptomatic abdominal simple cysts: is percutaneous sclerotherapy with hypertonic saline and bleomycin a treatment option?

Aim. To evaluate the feasibility of percutaneous sclerotherapy of symptomatic simple abdominal cysts, using hypertonic saline and bleomycin, as an alternative to surgery. Materials and Methods. This study involved fourteen consecutive patients (ten women, four men, mean age: 59.2 y) with nineteen symptomatic simple cysts (liver n = 14, kidney n = 3, and adrenal n = 2) treated percutaneously using a modified method. Initially CT-guided drainage was performed; the next day the integrity of the cyst/exclusion of extravasation or communications was evaluated under fluoroscopy, followed by two injections/reabsorptions of the same quantity of hypertonic NaCl 15% solution and three-time repetition of the same procedure with the addition of bleomycin. The catheter was then removed; the patients were hospitalized for 12 hours and underwent follow-ups on 1st, 3rd, 6th, and 12th months. Cyst's volumes and the reduction rate (%) were calculated in each evaluation. Results. No pain or complications were noted. A significant cyst's volume reduction was documented over time (P < 0.001). On the 12th month 17 cysts disappeared and two displayed a 98.7% and 68.9% reduction, respectively. Conclusion. This percutaneous approach constitutes a very promising nonsurgical alternative for patients with symptomatic simple cyst, without complications under proper precautions, leading to eliminating the majority of cysts.

Intraperitoneal marsupialization of a giant para-pelvic renal cyst: A case report

Simple renal cysts are among the most common cystic lesions of the kidney. Renal cysts most often remain asymptomatic, but rarely these cysts may become huge in size and result in significant symptoms. Giant renal cysts present a technical challenge in terms of surgical management. Although laparoscopic procedures have been performed successfully at experienced centres, intraperitoneal marsupialization via open approach may be a feasible option at less experienced centres. We report a case of a young female with a giant (24 × 18 cm) renal cyst of Bosniak type-II variety. De-roofing and intraperitoneal marsupialization of the cyst was performed. At the 1-year follow-up, she was asymptomatic, with no residual cyst.

Ethanolamine oleate vs. absolute ethanol as sclerosing agents for treating symptomatic simple renal cysts

OBJECTIVES

To compare the efficacy and safety of ethanolamine oleate (EO) as a sclerosing agent, vs. absolute ethanol (AE), in the treatment of symptomatic simple renal cysts.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between November 2009 and October 2012, 46 patients were prospectively randomised into two groups. All patients presented with a simple renal cyst underwent ultrasonographic aspiration and injection of a sclerosing agent. In group 1, 25 patients had the cyst injected with EO, and in group 2, 21 were treated with AE. One injection was used in cysts of <200 mL and two injections were used in larger cysts. Complete and partial success were defined as complete cyst ablation or a >50% reduction in cyst volume with symptomatic relief, respectively. Patients were followed up using semi-annual ultrasonography and computed tomography for 2 years.

RESULTS

Sclerotherapy was technically successful in all patients. There was no significant difference in cyst volume between the groups. After ≈2 years of follow-up there was complete symptomatic relief in both groups, and the overall radiological success rate was 100% of both groups, at 79% complete and 21% partial in group 1, and 83% complete and 17% partial in group 2. The frequency of transient complications in the form of microscopic haematuria was 7% and 13%, and of low-grade fever in 4% and 10% in groups 1 and 2, respectively.

CONCLUSION

EO can replace AE as a sclerosing agent for symptomatic simple renal cysts, as it has comparable efficacy with higher safety and tolerance.

How simple are 'simple renal cysts'?

The increasing use of medical imaging as an investigative tool is leading to the incidental and frequent finding of renal cysts in the general population. The presence of a solitary or multiple renal cysts has been generally considered benign in the absence of a family history of renal cystic disease or evidence of chronic kidney disease. Nonetheless, a number of recent studies have questioned this consensus by reported associations with the development of hypertension or malignant change. For these reasons, some clinicians consider the presence of renal cysts to be a contraindication to kidney donation. The situation is complicated by the different usage of the term 'simple' by some radiologists (to indicate non-complex lesions) or nephrologists (to indicate age-related non-hereditary lesions). We propose that the term 'simple' be replaced with the morphological description, Stage I renal cyst (Bosniak Classification). The presence of a Stage I renal cyst should not preclude kidney donation. However, occult renal disease should be excluded and appropriate donor assessment performed.

Complications of sporadic, hereditary, and acquired renal cysts: cross-sectional imaging findings

Commonly encountered in the general adult and elderly population, in most cases simple renal cysts are confidently diagnosed on imaging studies and do not require further workup or treatment. However, large or growing renal cysts sometimes cause symptoms or signs such as hypertension, palpable mass, flank or abdominal pain, obstructive uropathy, and hematuria, which may indicate the need for minimally invasive percutaneous or laparoscopic treatment. Furthermore, severe complications such as cystic hemorrhage, rupture, or superinfection may occur, particularly in patients with polycystic renal disorders, either hereditary (namely adult polycystic kidney diseases) or acquired in chronic renal failure. This pictorial essay reviews and discusses the cross-sectional imaging appearances of symptomatic and complicated sporadic, hereditary, and acquired renal cysts. Early cross-sectional imaging with multidetector computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging or both, including contrast enhancement unless contraindicated by renal dysfunction, is warranted to investigate clinical and laboratory signs suggesting retroperitoneal hemorrhage or infection in patients with pre-existent renal cysts, particularly if large, multiple, or hereditary.