Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 7, 2026

A Murine Model of Irreversible and Reversible Unilateral Ureteric Obstruction
Published on: December 20, 2014
URINARY OBSTRUCTION IN CAMELIDS AND ZOO RUMINANTS
Angelica Ferro1, Brett Gardner2, Simon Girling3
1Donald S McGregor & Partners Ltd, Thurso KW14 7EG, Scotland, United Kingdom, ferro.angelica@gmail.com.
Urolithiasis causing urinary obstruction in male zoo animals is challenging. Surgical outcomes varied, with perineal urethrostomy and tube cystostomy showing potential, but hyperkalemia indicated poor prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Zoological Medicine
- Urology
Background:
- Urolithiasis presents a significant health risk in male zoo animals, potentially leading to complete urinary obstruction.
- This condition has been documented across diverse species including camels, cattle, bison, and antelopes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review cases of urolithiasis causing complete urinary obstruction in male zoo animals.
- To analyze surgical interventions, outcomes, and associated prognostic factors.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case review of ten male zoo animals with complete urinary obstruction due to urolithiasis.
- Analysis of surgical procedures (perineal urethrostomy, urethrotomy, tube cystostomy) and their success rates.
- Evaluation of factors such as animal species, age, castration status, and pre-existing conditions.
Main Results:
- Eight of ten animals underwent surgery, with varying outcomes.
- Perineal urethrostomy and tube cystostomy were employed, with tube cystostomy resulting in full recovery without further intervention.
- Revision surgeries were often required, particularly after initial urethrotomy or perineal urethrostomy.
- Hyperkalemia and anemia were associated with poorer outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Surgical management of urolithiasis in zoo animals is complex, with outcomes dependent on the chosen procedure and potential complications.
- While some procedures like tube cystostomy showed promise, repeat surgeries were common.
- Identifying and managing metabolic derangements like hyperkalemia is crucial for improving patient prognosis.
Related Concept Videos
Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology
Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction
Pyloric Obstruction
Urinary Tract Calculi II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations
Urinary Tract Calculi V: Nursing Management
Disorders of the Urinary System
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common urinary system disorders. They are caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and can spread to the bladder resulting in cystitis. Pyelonephritis is the result of a UTI that has ascended to the level of the...

