Outcomes and comparison of modified percutaneous cystolithotomy and traditional open cystotomy in 52 cats.

OBJECTIVE

To compare short- and long-term clinical variables in cats undergoing a modified percutaneous cystolithotomy (PCCLm) or open cystotomy (OC) and to identify risk factors associated with complications and outcomes within the groups.

STUDY

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

ANIMALS: Fifty-two client-owned cats.

METHODS

Records were reviewed for cats that underwent PCCLm or OC between December 2010 and August 2023. Signalment, history, diagnostic findings, procedural and anesthetic details, hospitalization data, complications, urolith recurrence, and follow up were recorded. χ2 or Fisher's exact tests and two-sample t-tests were used to evaluate effects of categorical and numerical clinical variables respectively on outcomes within PCCLm and OC groups and between PCCLm and OC groups.

RESULTS

A total of 54 procedures were performed, 19 PCCLm (36.5%) and 35 OC (65.5%). Hospitalization duration (p = .031) and incision length (p = .002) were greater in the OC group. Incisional infections were associated with hospitalization duration in the OC group (p = .048). Incomplete urolith removal was associated with increased surgical time (p = .039) when no additional procedures were performed in the OC group. For PCCLm, incomplete urolith removal was associated with lower urinary tract signs within 14 days postoperatively (p = .018), increased incision length (p = .029), anesthesia time (p = .017), and hospitalization duration (p = .027).

CONCLUSION

Modified percutaneous cystolithotomy resulted in shorter incisions and hospitalization duration postoperatively in comparison with OC but no other clear advantages of PCCLm were identified.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The PCCLm procedure is an acceptable alternative to OC for urolith removal in cats.