OBJECTIVETo investigate the effect and safety of imaging-guided percutaneous catheterization drainage and alcohol sclerosis for treatment of renal cysts.

METHODSThirty-six patients with primary renal cysts, including 22 men and 14 women aged 18-65 years (mean 42.5 years), were treated with imaging-guided percutaneous puncture catheterization drainage and alcohol sclerosis treatment. The location of the renal cysts and puncture route, angle and depth were determined by ultrasound or CT scan. Paracentesis and catheterization external drainage were carried out under fluoroscope. Absolute alcohol was used as the sclerosis agent.

RESULTSThirty-eight cysts were detected in the 36 patients, locating at the upper pole (n=21), subtus pole (n=10) and intermediate pole (n=7). The length of renal cysts was 4.5-8.5 cm (mean 5.5 cm). Puncture was performed through the lumbar back and the success rate was 100%. Thirty-eight multi-lateral holes 5-7F drainage catheters were placed in the 38 cysts. Alcohol was injected for 169 times through the drainage tube and the average volume was 25 ml, with an average injection of 4.45 times. During the follow-up for 1 to 6 years (mean 3.5 years), 37 renal cysts disappeared and 1 cyst was reduced in a patient with polycystic kidney. The total cure rate was 97% in this series, and no serious complications occurred after the operation.

CONCLUSIONImaging-guided percutaneous puncture catheterization drainage and alcohol sclerosis is effective and safe for treatment of renal cysts.