Management of Urolithiasis by Cystotomy in a German Shepherd Dog – A Case Report

Abstract

Urolithiasis is an ailment resulting from the presence of calculi, crystals, or an excess of sediment in the urinary tract. Swift and accurate diagnosis of canine urolithiasis is crucial, enabling the prompt application of tailored interventions, including both surgical and non surgical approaches, to effectively address this common urinary tract ailment. This report discusses the surgical treatment of urolithiasis in a four-year old male German Shepherd dog with clinical signs of dysuria and protruded penis. The patient exhibited lethargy, caudal abdominal pain and bladder distention during the physical examination. Radiological findings revealed several stones in the urinary bladder with clear margins and radiopaque-like appearance. The dog was given pre-medication with xylazine at a dose of 3 mg/kg. Anesthesia was initiated and sustained with the combination of ketamine (5mg/kg body weight) and diazepam (0.5 mg/kg body weight). After ensuring the aseptic patient preparation, the peritoneal cavity was reached through a caudal ventral midline incision. The bladder was cut open, and the uroliths were extracted through a cystotomy incision. The bladder wall was closed with 3-0 polyglactin (Vicryl) suture in a cushing pattern. Vicryl was employed in a simple continuous pattern to close the peritoneum, subcutaneous tissues and muscles. The skin was sutured with silk in a simple interrupted pattern. The animal made a complete recovery 14 days after surgery