Bladder Autoaugmentation in Dogs: Assessment of Different Laparoscopic Methods

Abstract

Bladder autoaugmentation was described in 1989, and the effectiveness of this surgical technique in the management of neurogenic bladder dysfunctions is still debated. Few experimental studies with different animals and diverse changes in technique have been described, making comparison of studies difficult. The aim of this study was to assess laparoscopic bladder autoaugmentation in dogs, allowing future studies to be developed using a uniform surgical technique and the results to be compared. Seven male mongrel dogs weighing from 15 to 20 kg under general anesthesia underwent urodynamic evaluation. Laparoscopic bladder autoaugmentation was then attempted either with or without the use of the intravesical silicone balloon. The reproduction of the open technique caused complications. Changing the method of dissection was essential for completing the surgery. As different limitations appeared solutions were found as well. The use of the intravesical balloon requires the surgery to be different, although quite similar. Laparoscopic bladder autoaugmentation is feasible in the canine model with and without the intravesical silicone balloon. The best way to perform the surgery was identified for both methods. Future studies can be developed using a uniform surgical technique, and the functional results will be comparable.