Tolerance to bilateral subcutaneous access nephrostomy in dogs

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Surgical Techniques
• Experimental Animal Models

Background:

• Prolonged access to the renal pelvis is crucial for experimental physiological studies.
• Existing methods for renal pelvis access often involve complications from external drainage appliances.
• Alternative techniques like vesical exstrophy or conventional nephrostomy have limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and tolerance of subcutaneous access nephrostomy for prolonged physiological studies in experimental animals.
• To compare subcutaneous access nephrostomy with existing methods for renal pelvis access.

Main Methods:

• A polyvinyl tube (8 Fr.) was surgically placed in the renal pelvis, with the other end buried subcutaneously for percutaneous needle access.
• The procedure, termed subcutaneous access nephrostomy, was performed bilaterally in 10 dogs.
• Animals were monitored for six months to two years to assess kidney function, peristalsis, infection, and complications.

Main Results:

• Subcutaneous access nephrostomy did not significantly alter kidney function.
• Altered renal pelvis peristalsis and frequent bacteriuria were observed, but without pyelonephritis.
• No calcific deposits or calculi were found; the procedure was generally well-tolerated, with some cases of weight loss.

Conclusions:

• Subcutaneous access nephrostomy is an effective and well-tolerated method for prolonged physiological studies of the urinary tract in dogs.
• The technique offers an advantage over externally draining appliances.
• Potential clinical applications in humans warrant further investigation.