Cyst Aspiration/Sclerosis
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Our board-certified physicians diagnose and treat many vascular conditions. Call to learn more about interventional radiology services.
Treatment for:
Symptomatic cysts, usually in the liver, kidney, or elsewhere in the abdomen or pelvis
Why it’s done:
Cysts can form in the body for various reasons, and may cause symptoms, most commonly pain. Aspiration of the cyst may reduce symptoms, and can be useful to determine the cause of the cyst and guide treatment planning.
How it’s done:
An interventional radiologist or abdominal radiologist uses CT or ultrasound to guide a needle or small drain into one or more cysts. The fluid is then removed by vacuum suction. If cysts are recurrent, sclerosis can be performed by instilling a chemical which damages the cyst wall, reducing its chance of recurrence.
Level of anesthesia:
Conscious sedation or local anesthesia only
Risks:
Bleeding, infection, damage to surrounding structures
Post-procedure:
Bed rest for 1-2 hours.
Follow-up:
With referring physician. Recurrence of symptoms may suggest re-accumulation of fluid in the cyst, which may necessitate repeat aspiration or sclerosis.
For More Information
For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our IR physicians, please call 310-481-7545.