Endo-urological assessment and image guided interventions in the management of multiple cystic and urethral calculi in a dog

Abstract

Increasing incidence of urinary stones in dogs are major challenge for practicing veterinarians. Not every dog has access to surgical options and clients nowadays prefer day care non-surgical options. In this study, a 9-year-old intact non-descript male dog was evaluated for complaints and findings consistent with lower urinary tract disease, including hematuria and stranguria. Urinalysis revealed acidic urine, and abundant urate crystals, while urine culture yielded Proteus spp. organism and it was found to be sensitive to Amikacin, Gentamicin, Ceftriaxone, Ciprofloxacin and resistant to Amoxicillin and Cotrimoxazole. Hematological examination indicated mild anemia and leukocytosis, and serum biochemistry revealed post-renal azotemia. Radiography and ultrasonography confirmed the presence of multiple cystic calculi and a single 5 mm urethral calculi. Endourological assessment and interventions were planned. The urethral calculi was successfully relieved by retrograde urohydropropulsion into the bladder. Flexible Endoscope based Cystoscopy was performed under general anesthesia that permitted the direct visualization of the bladder calculi. Multiple number of smaller cystic calculi were retrieved with an endoscopic stone basket. Postoperative recovery was uneventful with no recurrence noted during a 6-month follow-up period. This report highlighted the diagnostic and therapeutic value of Endo-Urological assessment and image guided interventions for urolithiasis management.