Autologous blood urethral patching: A novel treatment option for persistent urethral leakage in a dog

Abstract

A 6‐year‐old miniature schnauzer was referred for urolithiasis and perineal swelling, suspicious of urethral trauma. On positive‐contrast cystourethrogram, the dog was diagnosed with rupture of the penile urethra. Temporary urinary diversion was attempted with no improvement. Primary urethral anastomosis was performed, but urine leakage resumed after surgery and led to wound formation in the perineum. Additional surgery was recommended to repair the urethra, but financial constraints prevented further surgery and hospitalisation. The decision was made to attempt an autologous blood urethral patch, mimicking the methodology of autologous blood pleurodesis for persistent pneumothorax. Autologous blood was instilled into the urethra at the site of the urethral tear. Five days after the procedure was performed, positive‐contrast cystourethrogram identified no contrast material outside the boundaries of the urethra. In this dog, performing autologous blood urethral patch resulted in a safe and non‐invasive treatment option for persistent urethral leakage following failure of traditional management.