Utilizing the Ellik bladder evacuator during cystoscopic retrieval of urocystoliths in 12 dogs.

Background: Urocystolithiasis is a common problem in dogs; many canine uroliths are resistant to medical dissolution. Novel management options would expand, and in some cases improve, current urolith retrieval strategies.
Hypothesis/objectives: To describe a previously unreported technique by the Ellik bladder evacuator (EE) to assist in minimally invasive, cystoscopic retrieval of canine cystoliths.
Animals: Twelve client-owned dogs presented with urocystolithiasis.
Methods: In this retrospective study, dog demographics, procedure type and duration, and clinical outcomes of dogs undergoing cystoscopic cystolith retrieval utilizing the EE are described.
Results: Twelve dogs underwent 13 cystoscopic procedures utilizing EE for cystolith retrieval. The EE was used in accordance with previously described techniques via a custom-made adaptor. Ten dogs were spayed females; 8 different breeds were represented. In 8 of 13 procedures, transurethral cystoscopy alone by EE with or without wire basket or grasping forceps was performed with a median procedure duration of 36 minutes (range, 16-52). In the other 5 procedures, additional interventions (ie, laser lithotripsy, percutaneous perineal approach, urethral stricture ballooning, ethanol parathyroid ablation) were performed as indicated with a median procedure duration 110 minutes (range, 42-144). No complications were noted in association with the use of the EE; retrieval of cystoliths was complete in 12 of 13 procedures.
Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Use of the EE during cystoscopy might aid in minimally-invasive retrieval of cystoliths. This work provides a starting point for additional discussion regarding its benefit relative to current interventions.
(© 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.)