LAPAROSCOPIC PYELOCALICEAL DIVERTICULA ABLATION

Pyelocaliceal diverticula are cystic urine collections within the renal parenchyma communicating with the collecting system. They occur in 0.2% to 0.5% of the population and often contain calculi. Flank pain is the most common complaint, and most lesions are diagnosed by intravenous urography. In the past, treatment has required open renal surgery, with potential loss of renal function, or prolonged percutaneous procedures. We propose surgical treatment of caliceal diverticula by laparoscopic unroofing and fulguration. The benefits include renal preservation as well as decreased morbidity and an earlier return to work for the patient.