Feline ureteral strictures: 10 cases (2007-2009)

Abstract

Background: Feline ureteral obstructions have emerged as a common problem. Ureteral strictures rarely are reported as a cause and the predisposing factors and clinical course of this condition have not been described.

Objectives: Evaluate cases of feline ureteral strictures and characterize historical features, clinical signs, diagnostic imaging, surgical and endoscopic findings, histopathology, treatment modalities, and short- and long-term outcomes.

Animals: Ten cats diagnosed with ureteral strictures based on compatible findings from at least 2 of the following: ultrasonography, ureteropyelography, surgical exploration, or histopathology.

Methods: Retrospective study.

Results: Median age, serum creatinine concentration, and size of the renal pelvis were 12 years, 3.7 mg/dL, and 11.75 mm, respectively. Six of 10 cats had hyperechoic periureteral tissue on ultrasound examination at the stricture site. Four cats had evidence of a circumcaval ureter at surgery. Eight cats had an intervention including ureteral stent placement (n = 6) and traditional surgery (n = 2). Seven of 8 cats had decreases in serum creatinine concentration and renal pelvic parameters preceding discharge and 6 had persistently improved results at their last examination. All patients survived to discharge. Median survival time was > 294 days (range, 14 to > 858 days) with 6/10 cats still alive.

Conclusions and clinical importance: Ureteral strictures may occur in cats secondary to ureteral surgery, inflammation, a circumcaval ureter, impacted ureterolithiasis, or for unknown causes. With appropriate and timely intervention, the prognosis for long-term survival is good. In addition to ureteral reimplantation or ureteronephrectomy, ureteral stenting or SC ureteral bypass may be considered as future therapeutic options.