Ureteral Closure Using Advanced Bipolar Vessel Sealing Devices During Laparoscopic Nephrectomy in Dogs and Cats: A Pilot Series of Clinical Cases

Recently, laparoscopic nephrectomy has become more popular in veterinary medicine. In the majority of these procedures, vascular sealing devices (VSDs) are used. These allow for the closure of renal vessels with advanced bipolar coagulation. However, until now, closure of the ureter was performed with mechanical clips or suturing. There is a lack of information in the literature about the possibility of VSDs being used for ureter closure. This article presents the possibility of renal vessels and ureter closure in cats and dogs with vascular sealing devices. Laparoscopic nephrectomy in dogs and cats was performed entirely with VSDs. Patients with unilateral hydronephrosis qualified for the procedure. The nephrectomies were completely performed using a laparoscopic approach. Both renal vasculature and ureter were closed with VSDs. Additionally, two resected ureters from operated cats underwent histopathological evaluation. Among the operated animals, there were no postoperative complications or signs in the urinary tract. Histopathological evaluation of two cats' ureters showed lumen closure on the coagulation places. Vascular sealing devices, during laparoscopic nephrectomy, allow for closure of not only the renal vessels but also ureters.