ABSTRACT

Percutaneous alcohol ablation treatment of renal cysts with single-session sclerotherapy in children is a safe, effective and minimally invasive procedure. The size of the cyst in the 6th month controls after the procedure is important in diagnosing recurrence.

Percutaneous access was successfully achieved in all patients. Average cyst size was 6.1±2.2 cm (range, 4-11 cm). While no significant volume loss was detected at the 1st and 3rd month controls of the patients, a statistically significant decrease was found in the cyst volume at the 6th month controls (53.1%, p<0.005). Average cyst volume reduction was 91.4% at the end of the first year. Complete resolution of the cyst was achieved in 3 patients (23%). Five patients (38%) had minor complications (3 pain, 2 fever) that resolved with medical treatments. Major complications were not observed in any of the patients. Symptomatic treatment was provided in all patients with hydronephrosis and hypertension. It was observed that pain continued and recurrence developed in 2 of 4 patients who presented with flank pain (15%). Percutaneous alcohol ablation was re-applied to one of these patients at the 7th month and to the other at the 1st year, and no residue was observed after the second intervention.

Thirteen symptomatic simple renal cysts in 5 female and 8 male patients aged between 13 months and 17 years who were treated with percutaneous alcohol treatment between 2009 and 2020 in our department were evaluated retrospectively. Indications were hydronephrosis in 7 patients, pain in 4 patients, and hypertension in 2 patients. The procedure was performed in all patients under the guidance of ultrasound and fluoroscopy by using a 6-Fr pigtail nephrostomy catheter. During sclerotherapy, 95% ethyl alcohol was used for ablation. The mean follow-up time was 34.4 months.

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of percutaneous alcohol ablation therapy for symptomatic simple renal cysts in pediatric patients.