Simple continuous closure of canine scrotal urethrostomy: results in 20 cases

Simple continuous closure of scrotal urethrostomy in 20 dogs is described. Mean duration of postoperative active bleeding and mean duration of bleeding only associated with urination were 0.2 day and 3.1 days, respectively. Long-term complications were minimal; intermittent urine scald (n = 2), recurrent urinary tract infections (n = 2), and recurrent obstruction due to struvite stones (n = 2) developed after surgery. All complications resolved with medical therapy (n = 4) or by cystotomy (n = 2). None of the dogs had complications due to wound dehiscence, stricture, incisional infections, self-mutilation, or incontinence. Follow-up ranged from two to 52 months (mean, 25.2 months). This technique is a viable alternative to previously reported closure methods.