Thank you for your patience and we apologize for the inconvenience.
Our hold times may be longer than usual as our team is currently undergoing a transition and training to serve you better.
For faster service, we encourage you to use our patient portal to message your care team, request appointments, or access health information anytime.
Thank you for your patience and we apologize for the inconvenience.
Our hold times may be longer than usual as our team is currently undergoing a transition and training to serve you better.
For faster service, we encourage you to use our patient portal to message your care team, request appointments, or access health information anytime.
  • UPNT clinics will open at a delayed time at 10 AM on 11/11-23 Secondary to the ice storm. we will continue to update on the website as conditions may change.
  • UPNT clinics will open at a delayed time at 10 AM on 11/11-23 Secondary to the ice storm. we will continue to update on the website as conditions may change.
  • UPNT clinics will open at a delayed time at 10 AM on 11/11-23 Secondary to the ice storm. we will continue to update on the website as conditions may change.
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  • UPNT clinics will open at a delayed time at 10 AM on 11/11-23 Secondary to the ice storm. we will continue to update on the website as conditions may change.
  • UPNT clinics will open at a delayed time at 10 AM on 11/11-23 Secondary to the ice storm. we will continue to update on the website as conditions may change.
  • UPNT clinics will open at a delayed time at 10 AM on 11/11-23 Secondary to the ice storm. we will continue to update on the website as conditions may change.
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Find Location
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866-367-8768
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Robotic Cyst Decortication & Kidney Surgery at UPNT

Advanced Options for Complex Renal Cysts and Masses

At Urology Partners of North Texas (UPNT), we provide robotic kidney surgery for patients with complex renal cysts and masses. Depending on your diagnosis, our expert robotic surgeons may recommend a robotic cyst decortication or a robotic partial nephrectomy to ensure the best outcome.

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Not all kidney cysts require surgery, but certain cysts—especially those classified as Bosniak III or IV—may need intervention. Bosniak IV cysts are treated like cancer, while Bosniak III cysts are considered suspicious and often managed with partial nephrectomy.

  • Benign but symptomatic cysts causing pain, pressure, or recurrent infections may be treated with either a robotic cyst decortication or treated by Interventional Radiology. The cyst is drained and injected with a medication to prevent it from recurring. This is referred to as Percutaneous cyst drainage and sclerotherapy and is performed by UPNT IR center in Arlington, Texas.

Understanding Renal Cysts and the Bosniak Classification

Renal cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in the kidneys. Most are harmless, but the Bosniak Classification System helps categorize them based on their risk of malignancy.

Bosniak Classification of Renal Cysts

  • Bosniak I: Simple, benign cysts. No treatment is needed.
  • Bosniak II: Minimally complex cysts with thin septations. Low cancer risk; typically requires monitoring only.
  • Bosniak IIF: More complex cysts with a slightly higher cancer risk. Requires regular monitoring with imaging.
  • Bosniak III: Indeterminate cysts with thick walls or septations. They are often treated with partial nephrectomy due to their high likelihood of malignancy.
  • Bosniak IV: HIgher risk malignant cysts that require surgical removal (partial or radical nephrectomy).

When is Surgery Needed for Renal Cysts?

Robotic Cyst Decortication or Percutaneous Cyst Drainage with Sclerotherapy

These procedures are typically recommended for benign but symptomatic cysts, such as:

  • Bosniak I or II cysts causing persistent pain or pressure
  • Cysts causing recurrent infections or bleeding
  • Growing cysts that are affecting nearby structures
Robotic Partial Nephrectomy

A partial nephrectomy may be necessary for:

  • Bosniak III or IV cysts that are suspicious for malignancy
  • Cysts with solid components or irregular features on imaging
  • Complex or growing cysts that cannot be safely treated with decortication alone
Your UPNT surgeon will carefully evaluate your imaging studies and determine the best approach for you

When is Surgery Needed for Renal Cysts?

Step 1

Robotic Cyst Decortication

This procedure is typically recommended for benign but symptomatic cysts, such as:
  • Bosniak I or II cysts causing persistent pain or pressure
  • Cysts causing recurrent infections or bleeding
  • Growing cysts that are affecting nearby structures

Step 2

Robotic Partial Nephrectomy

A partial nephrectomy may be necessary for:

  • Bosniak III or IV cysts that are suspicious for malignancy
  • Cysts with solid components or irregular features on imaging
  • Complex or growing cysts that cannot be safely treated with decortication alone
Your UPNT surgeon will carefully evaluate your imaging studies and determine the best approach for you
Request Appointment Now

Why Choose UPNT for Robotic Kidney Surgery?

Our Expertise

  • 10,000+ Robotic Surgeries Since 2002
  • USMD Hospital Arlington Recently celebrated its 20,000th robotic surgery milestone
  • First in Tarrant County to Offer Single-Port Robotic Surgery

The da Vinci Advantage

The da Vinci Surgical System enhances precision and control, allowing our surgeons to perform complex kidney surgeries with minimal trauma.
Key Benefits for Patients:
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery: Smaller incisions and faster recovery.
  • Enhanced Precision: High-definition, 3D visualization of the surgical site.
  • Reduced Pain and Blood Loss: Minimizes complications.
  • Faster Return to Normal Activities: Most patients recover within 2–3 weeks.
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The Robotic Cyst Decortication Procedure

Our expert robotic surgeons follow a meticulous process:
  • Patient Positioning and Port Placement
Several tiny incisions are made for robotic instruments.
  • Locating the Cyst
Advanced imaging helps the surgeon identify the cyst and surrounding structures.
  • Cyst Decortication
The outer wall of the cyst is removed to ensure proper drainage and prevent recurrence.
  • Final Checks and Closure
Bleeding is controlled, and incisions are closed with absorbable sutures.
The procedure typically takes 2–3 hours, and most patients stay in the hospital for 1–2 nights.

Your Journey: From Diagnosis to Recovery

At UPNT, we offer personalized care at every step.
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Initial Consultation
  • Review of medical history and symptoms
  • Examination of imaging studies (CT scans or MRIs)
  • Discussion of treatment options, including robotic cyst decortication or partial nephrectomy
Pre-Surgical Preparation
  • Medical Clearance from specialists if necessary
  • Additional Tests to ensure surgical readiness
  • Pre-Operative Instructions on diet and medications

Recovery and Postoperative Care

What to Expect After Surgery:

  • 1–2 Nights in the Hospital
  • Minimal Pain: Most patients experience only mild discomfort.
  • Back to Normal in 2–3 Weeks: Most daily activities can resume within this timeframe.
We’ll schedule follow-up appointments to:
  • Monitor your recovery progress
  • Ensure proper kidney function
  • Discuss any future care needs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a Bosniak cyst?

A Bosniak cyst is a kidney cyst classified based on complexity and cancer risk. Bosniak III and IV cysts are concerning and often require surgical intervention.

  • Cyst Decortication: Removes only the cyst wall for benign or symptomatic cysts (Bosniak I or II).
  • Partial Nephrectomy: Removes the cyst and surrounding kidney tissue if malignancy is suspected (Bosniak III or IV).
Most patients recover within 2–3 weeks, with minimal restrictions after that period.

Take the Next Step

If you’ve been diagnosed with a renal cyst or mass, trust UPNT’s expert team for advanced, minimally invasive care.
  • Over 10,000+ robotic surgeries performed since 2002
  • USMD Hospital Arlington: 20,000th robotic surgery milestone
  • First in Tarrant County to offer single-port robotic surgery
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Book Online
Dr. Weber Chuang will be retiring from medical practice effective September 26, 2025. To ensure that your medical care continues seamlessly, your ongoing care will be transitioned to another physician within our practice. You may schedule appointments directly by contacting our office at 866-367-8768 or via your patient portal. Your medical records will remain securely within the practice, so there is no additional step required on your part unless you wish to request a transfer elsewhere.
Dr. Weber Chuang will be retiring from medical practice effective September 26, 2025.
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