Splenic cysts--aspiration or partial splenic decapsulation?

We report on 2 children who had partial splenic decapsulation for splenic cysts--a pseudocyst and a congenital epidermoid cyst. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle aspiration with drainage was attempted in both patients but resulted in rapid cyst reaccumulation. Used on its own in the management of splenic cysts, percutaneous drainage has limited therapeutic value and delays definitive surgery. Partial splenic decapsulation is a simple and safe procedure.