Studies on the effects of total nephrectomy in sheep

Effects of total nephrectomy were studied in six sheep. There was no marked deterioration in the clinical condition of the animals except anorexia and reduced water intake. Three sheep survived the period of observation of 120 hours when they were euthanized. One animal suddenly died at each of 76, 80 and 100 hours. Progressive increase of blood urea nitrogen concentration was accompanied by severe metabolic acidosis in the later stages. Plasma creatinine rose significantly but the change was not marked. Plasma inorganic phosphorous and calcium decreased significantly. Unaffected plasma sodium levels were accompanied by hyperkalemia and hypochloremia. Plasma total proteins and albumin decreased significantly in the later stages. Results showed markedly different responses to total nephrectomy in sheep as compared to changes reported in cattle and nonruminants.