Obstructive ureterolithiasis in dogs: renal function evaluation in the indication for ureterotomy or ureteronephrectomy

Abstract

Objective: To review the methods of renal function evaluation available, the pathophysiology of ureteral obstruction, the nephrolithiasis and ureterolithiasis, the laboratory, radiographic and ultrasonography findings and the surgical indications related lo canine obstructive uretero lithiasis. Data Sources: AGRlS (from1975 lo 200), Biological Abstracts(from 1998 to 2003), CAB Abstracts (from 1990 to 2004) and Medline (from 1966 to 2004) databases and the collection of the library of the Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia da Universidade de São Paulo (School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science of the University of São Paulo), São Paulo, Brazil. were consulted. Data Synthesis: 1rreversible damage OI' compromised kidney function, associated to a normal functioning contralateral! kidney, supports the decision for performing an ureteronephrectomy instead of an ureterotomy when obstructive ureterolithiasis occurs. In theory, estimating the amount of fictional damage to the kidney helps to decide whether to preserve OI' remove the affected kidney and ureter; however, estimating the relative contribution of the affected and the contralateral kidney to lhe total renal fimction is difficult in practice. Conclusions: The reduced junction of the affected kidney is a cOl/1l/1on consequence of ureteral obstruction, but the degree of recovery afield' the natural occurrence of this disease in dogs and cats has not yet been established. When in doubt as to the irreversibility of the renal damage, attempts to achieve ureteral desobstruction and treatment of the underlying causes should always be considered, once at least a partial! recovery of the renal function may be possible.