All Pets Veterinary Clinic

DUTCHESS
Bladder Stone Removal

In cases of bladder stones, the fastest way for resolution of secondary
infection is often stone removal. After the abdomen is opened, the bladder
is isolated, exteriorized, and packed off.








Stay sutures are placed on both sides of the bladder. These sutures
allow for manipulation of the bladder. Urine is removed from the bladder and
the bladder is opened with a scalpel. The stones can then be removed.
The bladder is then flushed, sutured closed, and returned to the abdomen.







This dog only had one bladder stone measuring approx. 1 cm in lenght and width
and 1/4 cm in depth. Recovery will take about 1 week. The stone will be sent
to a laboratory for identification as there are may different types of stones.
Future management of Dutchess' diet and water intake will be necessary to prevent
her from getting additional stones. Recommendations will vary depending on the
type of stone that she has.

Special thanks to Dutchess' owners for allowing us to share these pictures.







Bladder stones are fairly common and vary tremendously in size, shape, number,
texture, and composition. The second set of stones are about the size of a potato
and took up the entire bladder. (They are from a different dog.) Signs of bladder
stones can include: straining to urinate, urinating small amounts frequently, bloody
urine, and repeat episodes of bladder infection. Kidney stones are less common in
dogs (whereas they are more common in people).

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Karen Blakeley, DVM, MPH

28 February 2003