Who is it for?
Kidney cysts are common with age and the great majority are harmless, needing no treatment. Treatment is considered only when a cyst causes symptoms: flank pain, fullness, pressure on the urinary tract, or marked enlargement.
Sclerotherapy is applied to symptomatic cysts confirmed as simple on imaging (classified simple in the international Bosniak system). Complex-appearing cysts are evaluated differently, together with urology.
How it is done — step by step
Confirmation
The cyst’s simple nature is re-confirmed on ultrasound; the safest track is planned.
Local anaesthesia
Skin and track are numbed; the procedure is done awake.
Drainage
A fine needle empties the cyst completely under ultrasound guidance; the fluid can be sent for analysis when indicated.
Sclerotherapy
An agent that seals the inner lining is instilled to prevent re-accumulation, left for a set time and withdrawn.
What to expect on the day
The procedure usually takes 30–45 minutes; a brief burning sensation may accompany the sclerosant and passes quickly.
You are discharged the same day after a few hours of observation.
Risks and Limitations
It is a low-risk procedure: mild soreness at the site and, rarely, transient pink urine. Bleeding and infection are rare.
A limit: the cyst may refill over time (recurrence), in which case the procedure can be repeated — one of sclerotherapy’s advantages. The goal is symptom relief and a small cyst, not necessarily complete disappearance on imaging.
Recovery and follow-up
Normal life resumes the next day; avoid heavy exercise for the first days.
The cyst is followed with ultrasound at intervals; size and symptoms are assessed together.
Scientific References
- Bosniak sınıflaması, 2019 sürümü (Silverman SG ve ark., Radiology, 2019)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every kidney cyst need treatment?
No — the great majority are harmless and only observed. Treatment is for simple cysts that cause symptoms or grow markedly.
Isn’t drainage alone enough?
Cysts that are only drained frequently refill. Sclerotherapy aims to seal the lining and prevent refilling.
What will I feel?
It is done under local anaesthesia; a brief burning may accompany the sclerosant and passes quickly.
Will the cyst disappear completely?
The aim is relief of symptoms and a small cyst; a minor remnant on imaging is common and not a problem.
What if it recurs?
The procedure can be repeated; in selected cases other options are considered together with urology.
Can I go home the same day?
Yes — after a few hours of observation.
The information on this page is for general education; diagnosis and treatment decisions are made individually after clinical evaluation.