Dutchess - Bladder Stone Removal

In cases of bladder stones, the fastest way for resolution of secondary infection is often stone removal. After the abdomen is opened, the bladder is isolated, exteriorized, and packed off.

Stay sutures are placed on both sides of the bladder. These sutures allow for manipulation of the bladder. Urine is removed from the bladder and the bladder is opened with a scalpel. The stones can then be removed. The bladder is then flushed, sutured closed, and returned to the abdomen.

This dog only had one bladder stone measuring approx. 1 cm in lenght and width and 1/4 cm in depth. Recovery will take about 1 week. The stone will be sent to a laboratory for identification as there are may different types of stones. 

 Future management of Dutchess' diet and water intake will be necessary to prevent her from getting additional stones. Recommendations will vary depending on the type of stone that she has.

 Special thanks to Dutchess' owners for allowing us to share these pictures.

Bladder stones are fairly common and vary tremendously in size, shape, number, texture, and composition. The second set of stones are about the size of a potato and took up the entire bladder. (They are from a different dog.) Signs of bladder

 stones can include: straining to urinate, urinating small amounts frequently, bloody urine, and repeat episodes of bladder infection. Kidney stones are less common in dogs (whereas they are more common in people).