Urinary bladder marsupialization for treatment of obstructive urolithiasis in male goats.

Objectives: To describe a surgical procedure for urinary bladder marsupialization and to report the results obtained from its use in the treatment of obstructive urolithiasis in male goats.

Study Design: Retrospective evaluation.

Animals Or Sample Population: Male goats with obstructive urolithiasis.

Methods: Medical records of male goats that had urinary bladder marsupialization for the treatment of obstructive urolithiasis were reviewed. Data retrieved from the medical records included signalment, postoperative treatment, duration of hospitalization, and short-term and long-term complications. Median values for measured variables were calculated.

Results: A total of 18 of 19 goats survived. Urinary flow was re-established in all 19 goats at the conclusion of surgery. Short-term postoperative complications (bladder mucosal prolapse and death) were observed in 2 goats. Long-term postoperative complications (cystitis and fibrotic stomal closure) occurred in 2 animals. Median duration of hospitalization was 4 days. At the time of follow-up, mild urine scald was reported for all goats. Clinical signs of upper urinary tract disease or obstruction were not reported. A total of 15 of 17 owners were satisfied with the procedure.

Conclusions: Urinary bladder marsupialization provided long-term resolution of urinary outflow obstruction in all goats with acceptable morbidity.

Clinical Relevance: Urinary bladder marsupialization is a procedure that provides a good prognosis for long-term resolution of obstructive urolithiasis in male goats.