Laparoscopic Ureterocystoplasty for Treatment of Vesicoureteral Reflux in a Dog
Introduction
The retrograde flow of urine from the bladder to the upper urinary tract is an abnormal event, known as vesicoureteral reflux (RVU.) It is the result of an intrinsic anatomical deficiency ureterovesical junction, or abnormal elevation of bladder pressure, due to mechanical or dysfunctional vesicoureteral obstruction. The RVU usually has no signs, the clinical picture is related to the presence of urinary tract infections and pyelonephritis.
Objectives
The aim of the current study was to describe a successful case report of laparoscopic repair of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in a dog.
Methods
A canine male, German Shepherd, 3 months and 6.7 kg, was served with a complaint of intermittent vomiting, tenesmus, and anorexia. The ultrasound examination revealed a bilateral dilated ureters, the right and left, 9.39 mm and 9.6 mm respectively, distally near the vesicoureteral junction, and signs of vesicoureteral reflux with early hydronephrosis in the right kidney. Laparoscopic ureterocystoplasty was performed using three trocars, a surgical technique as making a tunnel of urinary bladder submucosa near the ureterovesical junction.
Results
The patient convalesced uneventfully and was discharged following seven days. On the 10th day postop, new echography was performed and the ureters and kidneys were within the normal parameters and patterns. With a year and a half after surgery the animal is well according to the owner and shows no signs of change in urination.
Conclusions
Laparoscopic ureterocystoplasty was both feasible and effective in restoring adequate urine flow in a pediatric dog and should be considered as a treatment choice in case-selected patients.