Functional Urethral Obstruction in 3 Dogs: Clinical and Urethral Pressure Profile Findings

Abstract

Three dogs with dysuria and urine retention caused by excessive functional urethral resistance are described. All dogs had clinical histories and urologic signs that previously would have been classified as detrusor-urethral dyssynergia. Diagnosis of functional urinary obstruction was established by exclusion of anatomic urinary obstruction and confirmed by urethral pressure profilometry. In 2 cases, multiple pressure deflections recorded in the urethral pressure profile suggested spasm of urethral musculature, whereas in a 3rd dog, abnormally high pressures were recorded along a portion of the proximal urethra. Functional urinary obstruction was associated with prostatitis in 1 dog and with a history of urethral calculi in 1 dog, and no underlying disorder could be identified in the remaining dog. All 3 dogs improved with medical treatments that included alpha adrenergic antagonists. The etiology, diagnosis, and pharmacologic management of functional urinary obstruction are discussed.

Detrusor urethral dyssynergy in dogs: 35 cases (2007‐2019)

“…Both UTIs and prostatitis have been suggested to result in urethral spasm and subsequent function obstruction, and this could have accounted for the persistent urinary signs consistent with DUD in these dogs (Rosin & Barsanti 1981, Lane et al . 2000).…”

“…1998, Lane et al . 2000, Byron 2015). Ultrasonography of the urinary tract is recommended to assess for evidence of structural bladder abnormalities and chronic obstructive disease, characterised by ureteral and renal pelvic dilatation.…”

“…1998, Lane et al . 2000). Clinical signs have also been reported to worsen with exercise, increased water intake and sexual excitement (Rosin & Barsanti 1981, Collins et al .…”

Evaluation of urodynamic procedures in female cats anesthetized with low and high doses of isoflurane and propofol

“…[1][2][3][4] In the past, equipment necessary to perform urodynamic studies in small animals was usually available at only a few referral facilities; however, more institutions currently have the necessary equipment to perform these diagnostic tests. [1][2][3][4] In the past, equipment necessary to perform urodynamic studies in small animals was usually available at only a few referral facilities; however, more institutions currently have the necessary equipment to perform these diagnostic tests.…”

Differential Diagnosis of Urinary Incontinence and Cauda Equina Syndrome

“…The most commonly used and relatively successful drug is bethanechol hydrochloride (a cholinergic stimulant), which is usually used in cases due to bladder atony. 20,21 The primary effects of bethanechol on the lower urinary tract include increased detrusor muscle tone and intravesicular pressure and decreased bladder capacity. 22 It should not be used in cases of urinary outflow obstruction, due to the potential for bladder rupture.…”