Outcome of and complications associated with tube cystostomy in dogs and cats: 76 cases (1995-2006).
OBJECTIVE
To determine indications for cystostomy tube use in dogs and cats, complications associated with their use, and outcome of dogs and cats in which cystostomy tubes had been inserted.


METHODS
Retrospective case series.


METHODS
37 dogs and 39 cats.


METHODS
Information was obtained from medical records. Long-term follow-up information was obtained by use of a client questionnaire.


RESULTS
Indications for cystostomy tube placement were bladder dysfunction, urinary tract rupture, obstructive urinary tract neoplasia, urinary diversion following urogenital surgery, obstructive urolithiasis, and feline lower urinary tract disease. Median time tubes were in place was 11 days, but duration of tube use was significantly longer for animals with bladder dysfunction than for animals with urinary tract trauma, urinary diversion, or urinary tract obstruction. Thirty-seven (49%) animals had tube complications. Development of complications was not significantly associated with species, age, body weight, duration of tube use, or tube type, except that animals were significantly more likely to develop complications following long-rather than short-term use. In 42 animals, the underlying condition resolved and the tube was removed; 22 animals died or were euthanatized with the tube in place.


CONCLUSIONS
Results suggested that cystostomy tubes may be used for animals with various conditions related to problems with urine outflow. Nearly half the animals in the study developed complications related to the cystostomy tube, suggesting that potential complications should be discussed with owners prior to tube placement. However, most complications were easily resolved.
Beck
Alison L
AL
Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Herts AL9 7TA, England.
Grierson
James M
JM
Ogden
Daniel M
DM
Hamilton
Michael H
MH
Lipscomb
Victoria J
VJ
D000818:Animals; D002371:Cat Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D002415:Cats; D003559:Cystostomy / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D004285:Dogs; D005260:Female; D008297:Male; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000662:veterinary*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D001743:Urinary Bladder / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery; D001745:Urinary Bladder Diseases / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary; D014570:Urologic Diseases / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*; D013520:Urologic Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary