Laparoscopic or laparoscopic-assisted cystopexy for pelvic bladder in 3 dogs

The techniques and clinical outcomes of laparoscopic or laparoscopic-assisted cystopexy in 3 dogs diagnosed with pelvic bladder are reported herein. The medical records of 2 dogs with pelvic bladder which underwent laparoscopic cystopexy, and 1 dog which underwent laparoscopic- assisted cystopexy were reviewed. Data retrieved included signalment, clinical signs, diagnostic imaging, surgical technique, and clinical outcome. Long-term follow-up was obtained by verbal interviews with owners. Laparoscopic or laparoscopic- assisted cystopexy was successfully performed to reposition the urinary bladder within the abdominal cavity in all dogs. An intracorporeal suture technique was used in 2 dogs, whereas an extracorpreal technique was used in 1 dog. Two dogs with stranguria experienced complete resolution immediately following surgery and remained disease-free at 18 mo after cystopexy. A third dog with urinary incontinence subjectively improved (according to the owner) but had not resolved completely 2 d following surgery. Key clinical message: Laparoscopic or laparoscopic-assisted cystopexy may be an effective treatment for pelvic bladder in dogs and may offer a minimally invasive alternative to laparotomy. Male dogs with stranguria as the primary clinical sign may experience complete resolution following cystopexy.