Outcomes after transperitoneal laparoscopic ureteronephrectomy for the treatment of primary renal neoplasia in seven dogs.

Objective: To describe the perioperative characteristics and outcomes in dogs that underwent transperitoneal laparoscopic ureteronephrectomy (TLU) for primary renal neoplasia.

Study design: Short case series.

Animals: Seven client-owned dogs.

Methods: Medical records were reviewed and data extracted regarding perioperative characteristics and animal outcomes. TLU was performed using a single-port + 1 or multiple port techniques. Hemostatic clips or a vessel-sealing device were used for occlusion of renal hilar vessels. The ureter was occluded and transected close to the ureterovesicular junction and the tumor was placed in a specimen retrieval bag for extraction from the abdomen.

Results: Preoperative contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT) was performed in 6/7 dogs. Median estimated tumor volume measured from abdominal CECT removed by TLU was 32.42 cm³ (interquartile range [IQR] 14.76-94.85). Median surgery time for TLU was 90 minutes (IQR 85-105). In one dog, elective conversion to open laparotomy was performed due to large tumor size. Median time to discharge was 31 hours (IQR 24-48). No major perioperative complications occurred and all dogs survived to discharge. Progression free survival in four dogs was 422 days (IQR 119-784).

Conclusion: TLU was performed for the extirpation of modest sized primary renal tumors with acceptable perioperative outcomes and a low complication rate.

Clinical relevance: TLU may be considered for the treatment of selected cases of primary renal neoplasia in dogs.