Computed tomography and nephrotomy in a Warmblood stallion with bilateral nephrolithiasis.

This research outlines a case study of the diagnosis and surgical planning process in a horse suffering from an abnormal condition involving kidney stones in both kidneys. Computed tomography and surgery techniques were used in the management of the illness.

Background

• The focus of the study is a Warmblood stallion horse, weighing 460 kg, that was presented with chronic weight loss, high levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia), and high amounts of nitrogen compounds in the blood (azotemia).
• Initial ultrasonography identified abnormal reflective masses in both kidneys as well as an enlargement of the kidney’s internal cavity (pelvis) on the right side.
• A solid mass was also detected on the left side through a transrectal examination.

Use of Computed Tomography

• The research team performed a computed tomography (CT) scan of the lower part (caudal abdomen) of the horse where additional, high-quality images were captured.
• The CT scan was useful because it allowed for a precise measurement of the size, position, and extent of kidney mineralization (the formation of minerals in the kidney leading to kidney stones) in the horse’s body.
• The CT scan’s three-dimensional nature offered valuable understanding and observation of the kidney mineralization, greatly benefitting the treatment selection and preparation process.

Surgical Intervention and Outcome

• Between the two kidneys, the kidney stone in the right kidney was better defined, making it the preferred choice for surgical intervention (nephrotomy).
• Post-operation, the horse developed an infection at the surgical site. This unfortunate development led to the decision to euthanize the horse three weeks after the surgery.

Conclusion

• The case study validates the use of CT scans on the lower part of an adult horse as a feasible technique.
• Three-dimensional understanding of kidney mineralization from CT scan results proved highly advantageous in determining and planning effective treatment.