Indications of unilateral bovine nephrectomy: a report of four cases

Unilateral nephrectomy was done on 4 cows with renal disease. The history and clinical signs varied and were not pathognomonic for disease of the urinary system. Serum creatinine and BUN concentrations were normal in each cow prior to nephrectomy, in spite of advanced renal disease. Results of urinalysis were abnormal in 3 cows. Cystoscopic examination aided in the diagnosis, by revealing unilateral hematuria in 1 cow. Palpation per rectum revealed a large abdominal mass adjacent to the kidney in 2 cows. Exploratory celiotomy was necessary in 3 cows to determine the exact nature of their disease. Nephrectomy was easily performed; however, ligature security was critical. A biopsy of the remaining kidney at the time of nephrectomy aided in determining medical therapy and prognosis. Three cows recovered from the effects of the disease and became productive members of the herd. One cow was euthanatized because of end-stage renal disease in the remaining kidney.