Significance of simple renal cysts and percutaneous cyst puncture on renal function

Renal function was investigated in 17 patients with simple renal cysts. Single kidney glomerular filtration rate was estimated by gamma camera renography with 99mTc-DTPA before, 5 days and 6 months after percutaneous puncture and evacuation of the cysts. Prior to the puncture and evacuation, the only negative effects on renal function noted were signs of moderate obstruction of the renal outflow in 2 patients. Percutaneous puncture with evacuation of the cystic fluid did not change the renal function significantly. It was concluded that simple renal cysts do not have any functional consequences nor does percutaneous puncture and evacuation of the cysts.