Use of a laparoscopic retrieval device for urolith removal through a perineal urethrotomy.

This research discusses the successful application of a laparoscopic retrieval device for removal of urinary stones (uroliths) via perineal urethrotomy in two adult horses without needing to fragment the stones first.

Objective and subjects of the study

• The objective of the study was to explore the effectiveness of a laparoscopic retrieval device in the removal of urinary stones through a procedure known as perineal urethrotomy.
• The study involved two case reports – one was a 12-year-old Konenklijk Warmbloed Paardenstamboek Nederland (KWPN) gelding and the other a 15-year-old Holsteiner gelding.

Methodology

• Both the horses were made to stand under sedation and a surgical procedure, perineal urethrotomy, was performed. This process involved making an incision in the perineum to access the urethra for removal of the stones.
• A laparoscopic retrieval device, a tool typically used in minimally invasive abdominal surgeries, was used to remove the uroliths without needing to break or fragment them prior to removal.

Results

• The procedure was successful in both the cases, and the urinary stones were removed successfully without any short or long term complications.
• The size of the larger stone was considerable, measuring 6 cm in length and 4.6 cm in width.

Conclusion

• The application of a laparoscopic retrieval device for uroliths removal via perineal urethrotomy proved to be a fast and minimally traumatic method.
• This approach eliminated the need for prior fragmentation of the urinary stones, which can be a time-consuming and potentially more harmful process.