Retrospective comparison of modified percutaneous cystolithotomy (PCCLm) and traditional open cystotomy (OC) in dogs: 218 cases (2010–2019)

Abstract Objective To compare short‐ and long‐term clinical variables between dogs undergoing a modified percutaneous cystolithotomy (PCCLm) and open cystotomy (OC) and evaluate for risk factors associated with complications and outcomes within the groups. Study design Retrospective study. Animals A total of 218 dogs. Methods Records were reviewed for dogs that underwent PCCLm or OC between January 2010 and December 2019. Signalment; history and diagnostic findings; procedural, anesthetic, and hospitalized care data; complications; urolith recurrence; and follow‐up were recorded. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate effects of clinical variables on outcomes within PCCLm and OC groups and to identify significant categorical variables between PCCLm and OC groups. Two sample t ‐tests were used to identify significant numerical variables between PCCLm and OC groups. Results A total of 60.1% (131/218) of dogs underwent the PCCLm procedure and 39.9% (87/218) of dogs underwent the OC procedure. Anesthesia time ( p < .001) was significantly longer in the OC group. No significant difference in incomplete urolith removal was noted between groups. Although surgical site infection and inflammation rates were not significantly different between OC and PCCLm groups, incisional infections were significantly associated with complications occurring during PCCLm ( p = .027). Significantly reduced postoperative lower urinary tract signs ( p = .022) were noted in the PCCLm group. Conclusion The PCCLm may result in reduced lower urinary tract signs postoperatively compared to OC, but other clear advantages of the PCCLm were not identified in this study. Clinical significance PCCLm procedures are an effective alternative to OC for urolith removal in dogs.