Ectopic ureter in the horse: Three cases and a review of the literature.

The research provides evidence that surgical procedure, ureterovesicular anastomosis, effectively treats urinary incontinence in horses suffering from a unilateral ectopic ureter condition.

Overview of the Study

• The study examined the effectiveness of a surgical process, ureterovesicular anastomosis, in dealing with a urological condition in horses known as unilateral ectopic ureter. This condition mainly causes urinary incontinence.
• The researchers documented the progress of three horses that underwent the procedure. Two of these horses were followed-up after the surgery, 10 months and 3 years respectively, and no recurring urinary problems were noted. The third horse unfortunately passed away four days after the operation due to intestinal infarction, a different medical complication.

Procedure for Diagnosis

• The researchers utilized several methods to diagnose ectopic ureter such as antegrade or retrograde ureterography, and endoscopic visualization of the ectopic ureteral openings. These techniques allowed them to confirm the presence of the ureteral abnormality in the horses.

Indications for Treatment

• Nephrectomy, or removal of the kidney, was also found to be necessary in cases where the unilateral ectopic ureter was associated with a urinary tract infection or hydronephrosis, provided the other kidney was functioning normally. This was important to prevent potential complications that could arise from these associated conditions.
• On the other hand, the ureterovesicular anastomosis surgery was indicated for the management of unilateral ectopic ureters in the absence of an ascending urinary tract infection or hydronephrosis. It was also suitable for treating cases of bilateral ectopic ureters.