Artificial urethral sphincter in male dogs with urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence: 19 cases (2010-2017)

To assess the outcome and safety of surgically placed artificial urethral sphincters in male dogs with urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence.

We included dogs with urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence treated by placing an artificial urethral sphincter from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2017. The continence score (scale 1 to 5, with 5 indicating complete continence) was evaluated before and after implantation. Follow-up information was obtained from the institution's medical records (short-term up to 12 months) and questionnaires were completed by telephone (long-term ≥12 months) for evaluation.

Medical therapy was unsuccessful in 18 dogs and unknown in one dog before the artificial urethral sphincter placement. Short-term continence improved in 16 of the 19 (84%) dogs. Four patients were lost to follow-up. Nine of 15 (60%) dogs showed long-term continence improvement, eight of 15 (53%) remained completely continent. The median follow-up was 1785 (range 2 to 3234) days. The complication rate was 56% (9/16). Minor complications, including haematoma, stranguria/temporary dyssynergia and mild inflammation at the port, were reported in four of 16 (25%) dogs. Five of 16 (31%) experienced major complications, including stranguria/mechanical urethral obstruction, persistent dyssynergia, fistula at the port and port rotation.

Artificial urethral sphincter placement is a valid option for treating incontinent male dogs that show an insufficient response or become refractory to medical or other prior surgical management. A high-complication rate is associated with this procedure.