What is the name of the surgery to remove bladder stones from a cat? - briefly
The surgical procedure to remove bladder stones from a cat is called cystotomy. This operation involves making an incision in the bladder to extract the stones, ensuring the cat's urinary health is restored.
What is the name of the surgery to remove bladder stones from a cat? - in detail
The surgical procedure to remove bladder stones from a cat is known as cystotomy. This operation is specifically designed to address the presence of uroliths, or bladder stones, which can cause significant discomfort and health issues for felines. Bladder stones in cats can be composed of various minerals, with the most common types being struvite and calcium oxalate stones.
Cystotomy involves making an incision into the bladder to physically remove the stones. This procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure the cat's comfort and safety. The veterinarian will carefully open the bladder, extract the stones, and then flush the bladder with sterile saline to remove any remaining stone fragments. The incision in the bladder is then sutured closed using absorbable sutures, which will dissolve over time. The abdominal incision is also closed, usually in layers, to promote proper healing.
Preoperative diagnostics are crucial for planning the surgery. These may include blood tests, urinalysis, and imaging studies such as radiographs (X-rays) or ultrasound to assess the size, number, and location of the stones. Additionally, a thorough physical examination and a review of the cat's medical history are essential to identify any underlying conditions that might complicate the surgery.
Postoperative care is equally important to ensure a successful recovery. Cats undergoing cystotomy will typically require pain management, antibiotics to prevent infection, and a controlled diet to support bladder health. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the cat's progress and ensure that there are no complications, such as infection or recurrence of stones.
In some cases, dietary management and medication can be used to dissolve certain types of bladder stones, particularly struvite stones, thereby avoiding the need for surgery. However, for more resistant stone types like calcium oxalate, surgical removal via cystotomy is often the most effective treatment option. It is essential for cat owners to work closely with their veterinarians to determine the best course of action based on the specific needs and health status of their pet.