Urethra - Urohydropulsion Flashcards
(7 cards)
What is urohydropulsion
This is when a urinary catheter is passed into the urethra and sterile saline is used to attempt to flush the blockage back up into the bladder.
How long is a urinary catheter left in place for?
2-3 days
Patient Pre op Care
Electrolyte and hydration status of these patients are corrected before these surgical procedures. Care must be taken as some patients may be hyperkalaemic. Preoperative care is much the same as discussed in ectopic ureters
Patient Positioning
The way the patient is positioned is decided upon by the veterinarian. It is common for them to be placed in lateral recumbency with the uppermost limb pulled cranial and tail elevated away from the surgical site, or dorsal recumbency with the pelvis slightly tilted off dorsal.
Patient Prep
The perineal area including the inner thighs should be clipped. The area can then be prepped aseptically.
Instrument / Materials
No special instruments are required. A sterile open urinary catheter appropriate for the size of the patient, sterile saline, sterile syringes and non-absorbable suture material will need to be selected. A drape is not required for this procedure as it is considered a dirty surgery and is often performed in the prep room or induction room. A closed system urinary catheter may also be required. A closed system has the advantages of reducing the risk of ascending infections and urine is diverted away from the patient to minimise soiling.
Post op
Low irritant, non-absorbable litter will need to be placed in the litter tray for cats, so it does not get stuck in the urinary catheter and cause a blockage. An Elizabethan collar will be required so the patient does not interfere with the catheter and pull it out. The patient should be left on intravenous fluid therapy much the same as other urinary procedures. The catheter should be inspected regularly for signs of faecal soiling, interference by the patient and continued patency.
