Study performed at the Bobst Hospital of The Animal Medical Center in New York, NY and the Matthew J. Ryan Veterinary Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA.
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Original Article – Clinical
Use of a Percutaneously Controlled Urethral Hydraulic Occluder for Treatment of Refractory Urinary Incontinence in 18 Female Dogs
Article first published online: 8 JAN 2013
DOI: 10.1111/j.1532-950X.2012.01040.x
© Copyright 2013 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons
Additional Information
How to Cite
Currao, R. L., Berent, A. C., Weisse, C. and Fox, P. (2013), Use of a Percutaneously Controlled Urethral Hydraulic Occluder for Treatment of Refractory Urinary Incontinence in 18 Female Dogs. Veterinary Surgery, 42: 440–447. doi: 10.1111/j.1532-950X.2012.01040.x
Presented in part at the 2011 American College of Veterinary Surgeons Veterinary Symposium November 1–5, 2011, Chicago, IL.
Publication History
- Issue published online: 15 MAY 2013
- Article first published online: 8 JAN 2013
- Manuscript Accepted: JUL 2012
- Manuscript Received: JAN 2012
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Objective
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a percutaneously controlled urethral hydraulic occluder (HO) device for the treatment of refractory urinary incontinence (RUI) in female dogs with various urogenital anomalies.
Study Design
Case series.
Animals
Female dogs with RUI (n = 18).
Methods
Retrospective evaluation of dogs after a silicone ring (HO) was surgically placed around the proximal urethra. The ring was connected to a subcutaneous injection port with actuating tubing. Residual incontinence was treated with percutaneous infusion of sterile saline into the device to provide extraluminal urethral compression. Dogs were assessed for continence (owner-assessed 10-point continence scale) and complications at standard time points.
Results
All 18 dogs had significantly improved continence scores (P < .001) after HO placement (median and mean score pre-HO = 2.8 and 3.3; post-HO = 10 and 8.9, respectively) with a median follow-up time of 32 months. “Functional” continence (score ≥ 9) was achieved in 67% of dogs after HO placement, though only 13/18 clients were compliant with inflations. Of dogs belonging to compliant owners, 12 (92%) had a functional continence score. Six dogs (33%) did not require inflation to achieve continence. Urethral obstruction occurred as a complication in 3 dogs.
Conclusions
Use of an HO device was an effective long-term treatment for RUI when traditional options failed. The technique was associated with some complications, and these risks should be considered before use.