Small Animal Soft Tissue Surgery Q&A 13

This question was provided by Manson Publishing as part of the OVAL Project. See more Small Animal Soft Tissue Surgery Q&A.

This is a one-year-old, female Terrier mixbreed presented for intermittent dribbling since its acquisition at three months of age. This dog periodically voids the bladder normally.

Question	Answer		Article
What diagnosis is suggested by the contrast study?	The excretory urogram shows ureteral ectopia; here the dilated left ureter drains into the urethra. It is a congenital disorder where one (70–80% of dogs) or both ureters (most cats) terminate and drain at a site other than the urinary bladder, most often in the urethra or vagina. The condition occurs most frequently in Siberian Huskies, Newfoundlands, Terriers, Golden and Labrador Retrievers and Toy Poodles; the mode of inheritance is unknown.		Link to Article
What are five morphologic variations of this anatomic anomaly?	The five morphologic variations of this anatomic anomaly are: Intramural ureter with the opening distal to the bladder sphincter. This is the most common type of ectopic ureter. Intramural ureter with no distal opening. Intramural ureter with two distal openings – one above and one below the bladder sphincter. Intramural ureter with a normal opening and a ureteral trough continuing distal to the sphincter. Extramural ureter that enters directly into the vagina or urethra without penetrating the bladder wall.		Link to Article
What are the methods of choice for assessing the ureteral pathway and its termination?	An excretory urogram in conjunction with pneumocystogram is useful to assess the presence or absence of an ectopic ureter. Vagino-urethrography is also useful for evaluating the termination of the ureter. Radiography cannot be used to identify the morphologic type of ectopic ureter.		Link to Article