Endoscopic-assisted disruption of urinary calculi using a holmium:YAG laser in standing horses.

The research focuses on a new procedure for treating urinary stones in horses. Using a Holmium:YAG laser, the stones were broken into smaller fragments, making it easier for them to be removed.

Research Methodology

The method of this study involved a retrospective study carried out on six horses that had urinary stones. The horses comprised four geldings, one stallion, and one mare. The procedure consisted of:

• Using a holmium:YAG laser to break down the urinary stones.
• Ischial urethrotomy was performed on male horses to create an opening for the endoscope and laser fiber.
• The stone fragments were removed by lavage, transendoscopic basket snare removal, forceps, and digital manipulation.
• Ischial urethrotomies wounds were allowed to heal naturally.
• Follow-up was done through recheck examination and phone interviews with the owners.

Results

There were no major complications during or after the surgery. Two stones were fragmented with a combination laser and manual disruption tool. The mare experienced postoperative dysuria (painful urination), but this resolved after a month. The follow-up period was on average 306 days, and no additional complications were reported.

Conclusions

The research suggests that the calcium carbonate urinary stones in horses up to 15 cm in diameter can be effectively broken up using a holmium:YAG laser. However, the efficiency of this technique on larger or denser stones is still unknown.

The conclusion of the study was that the Holmium:YAG laser-assisted disruption method is a minimally invasive procedure that could be performed on horses while they are standing, thus, reducing the risk to the patient.