Ann. Méd. Vét., 2005, 149 (2), pp 75-92 Urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence in the bitch. Review of the literature.HAMAIDE A., BALLIGAND M., VERSTEGEN J.Abstract :
Urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence is characterized by unvoluntary urine leakage, worsening when the animal is recumbent or asleep, or during excitement. It mainly affects large breed dogs, and mostly middle-aged spayed bitches. The aetiology of this condition is multifactorial and predisposing factors include a decrease urethral tone, an intrapelvic bladder neck position, a short urethra, sterilisation, obesity, and age.
Diagnostic workup should include a vaginourethrography to identify possible vaginal abnormalities and to visualize the urethra and the position of the bladder neck, and urethral profilometry to demonstrate a decrease in maximal urethral pressure and functional profile length.
Medical treatment with oestriol is an option. This short-acting oestrogen does not exhibit oestrogenic side effects. Unfortunately, its success rate is only of 65 % of complete continence. The ?-adrenergic agents (phenylpropanolamine and ephedrine) are more efficacious, with a success rate reaching 75 to 90 %, with very few side effects. In absence of response to the treatment, or if the animal becomes refractory, a colposuspension can be recommended, with a fairly good prognosis. Get the PDF Contact person : Annick.Hamaide@ulg.ac.be |