Outcomes Following Balloon Dilation of Benign Urethral Strictures in Dogs: Eight Cases (2005–2018)

Abstract

Balloon dilation has been described infrequently as a treatment for benign urethral strictures in dogs but is often a first-line therapeutic option for humans. Additional evidence is needed to evaluate the potential role of this procedure in veterinary medicine. The aim of the study was to describe the techniques used and evaluate the response to balloon dilation of benign urethral strictures in dogs. Medical records were reviewed from eight client-owned dogs who underwent balloon dilation of a benign urethral stricture over a 13 yr period in this retrospective case series. Clinical signs improved for five of eight dogs after a single balloon dilation during a follow-up period of 1 wk to 3 yr. After a second procedure, an additional dog demonstrated improvement for 5.5 yr. Adverse outcomes included urinary incontinence in two dogs and recurrent bacteriuria in four dogs. Findings suggest that balloon dilation is an effective, minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of benign urethral strictures in dogs. Urinary incontinence, urinary tract infection, and stricture recurrence are potential outcomes for dogs undergoing this procedure either as a result of the nature of the underlying disease or as a result of the procedure.

ACVIM consensus statement on diagnosis and management of urinary incontinence in dogs

“…The major complication of urethral stenting is continued incontinence, reported in 26% to 41% of dogs 140,141 . Alternatively, balloon dilation of the urethra for malignant UC, proliferative urethritis, and benign strictures has been described in dogs 143‐145 . Balloon dilation offers a good alternative to relieve obstruction without the ongoing severe UI seen in some dogs with stents.…”

“… 140 , 141 Alternatively, balloon dilation of the urethra for malignant UC, proliferative urethritis, and benign strictures has been described in dogs. 143 , 144 , 145 Balloon dilation offers a good alternative to relieve obstruction without the ongoing severe UI seen in some dogs with stents. It can be a suitable treatment option for dogs with urethral UC while they are undergoing radiation therapy for their disease, but dogs with prostatic carcinoma are less responsive to balloon dilation.…”