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Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Evaluation of Biomaterials for Bladder Augmentation using Cystometric Analyses in Various Rodent Models
Published on: August 9, 2012
Laparoscopic cystotomy for removal of a large bladder polyp in a juvenile alpaca with polypoid cystitis
David E Anderson1, Kara M Schulz, Marjolaine Rousseau
1Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA. danderso@vet.ksu.edu
Objective:
To describe a method for laparoscopic cystotomy in an alpaca.
Study Design:
Case report.
Animals:
Female alpaca.
Methods:
An 8-month-old female alpaca was admitted with a 6-week history of straining to urinate and vulvar swelling. Transrectal ultrasound examination revealed a 1.5 x 1.5 x 2 cm polyp within the bladder.
Results:
The mass was excised using laparoscopic cystotomy. Leakage from the cystotomy site resolved over 12 days using a Foley catheter. The alpaca was healthy and urinating normally at 9 months after surgery.
Conclusion:
Minimally invasive surgery by laparoscopic cystotomy can be used to remove large urinary polyps in alpacas.
Clinical Relevance:
Urinary bladder polyps should be considered as differential diagnosis in alpacas with stranguria.
