Cystoscopy / Urethroscopy

Urethrocystoscopy is indicated in a large number of small animal patients, including those presenting with chronic cystitis, pollakiuria, hematuria, stranguria, incontinence, trauma, calculi, and abnormal radiographs. Performing urethrocystoscopy in the variety of patients we see in small animal practice requires more than one endoscope.
 
The most popular small animal cystoscope is the Multi-Purpose Rigid™ Endoscope, which is ideal for female dogs ranging from approximately 5-45 lbs. Please be advised that urethral diameter does not correlate well with total body weight. Use of this telescope for cystoscopy in males requires either a perineal urethrostomy, or the transabdominal approach (direct entry into the bladder through a small incision in the abdominal wall). The transabdominal approach may also be indicated in females where urethral diameter is too small. A variety of sheaths and cannulas are recommended for use with this telescope, depending on the anatomical approach. Total outer diameter of these systems ranges from 12.0-14.5 Fr.

Use of the Multi-Purpose Rigid™ Endoscope in cats is limited to larger females. Predilation of the urethra with a balloon dilator may facilitate the procedure. Smaller rigid and semirigid telescopes are available in the range of 1.2 mm to 1.9 mm for smaller patients

The ideal endoscope for transurethral cystoscopy in male dogs is the Specialty Fiberscope, due to its extended length and slender diameter. For larger female dogs, an extended length telescope of 3.5-4.0 mm in diameter is recommended, used with standard adult human cystoscope sheaths that begin at 17 Fr., and include integral instrument channels.
 

Cystoscopy of the uninary bladder

Ectopic ureter in the proximal urethra of a young female dog.