Spontaneous retrograde movement of ureteroliths in two dogs and five cats.

CASE DESCRIPTION: 2 dogs and 5 cats were evaluated for treatment of ureteroliths.

CLINICAL FINDINGS: Spontaneous retrograde movement of 1 or more ureteroliths was detected by radiography, ultrasonography, fluoroscopy, and a combination of fluoroscopy and ultrasonography. The ureteroliths moved retrograde up to 4 centimeters. Retrograde movement of ureteroliths into the renal pelvis resulted in improved renal function in some patients but made complete surgical removal of all uroliths more difficult.

TREATMENT AND OUTCOME: Medical management was not successful, and ureteroliths were surgically removed. Surgical management of ureteroliths was complicated by retrograde movement of ureteroliths in the perioperative period.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Ureteroliths can move retrograde within the ureter and even back into the renal pelvis. Retrograde movement of ureteroliths may make surgical planning more difficult.