Perineal transsphincteric derivation of urine. Experimental study in rabbits

We present the experimental results of a new technique that makes use of the anal sphincter to achieve urinary continence in individuals with major congenital defects of the urinary sphincter.

50 New Zealand White rabbits were assigned to one of 6 groups and a different surgical procedure was carried out for each group under general anaesthesia with isoflurane alone or isoflurane and local anaesthesia. Variables of interest were: number, consistency and morphology of the faeces, number, shape and location of the stains of urine, histological changes and biochemical parameters in blood.

The best anaesthetic levels were obtained with 2 % isoflurane and local anaesthesia. The surgical procedure demonstrated its usefulness in achieving urinary continence in all rabbits, although an initial self-limited period of incontinence was common. No histologic alterations were detected, but a significant increase in the levels of urea and creatinine in blood was identified, most likely reflecting an obstructive uropathy.