Ventral dissection increases urethral translation length in feline perineal urethrostomy: a cadaveric study

Objectives Postoperative stenosis of the urethral orifice is a potential complication of perineal urethrostomy (PU), often caused by inadequate periurethral dissection leading to craniocaudal tension on the stoma. The aim of this study was to evaluate the length of the urethra translated caudally at each step of the dissection of the penile urethra during PU. Methods Staged dissection for PU was performed on 14 male cat cadavers. Measurements of urethral length were recorded at each stage using digital callipers and standardised traction. Location of the bulbourethral glands (BUGs) relative to the caudal aspect of the ischium was documented. Descriptive statistics were performed. Results Each stage of dissection led to an increase in urethral translation length, with an overall mean increase of 17 ± 1.94 mm. The most significant increase occurred after blunt dissection of the fibrous attachments between the ventral surface of the urethra and the dorsal surface of the pubis, extending to the pubic brim, accounting for 43.1% of the total translation length. Ventral dissection resulted in a 3.9-fold increase in urethral translation length compared with dorsal dissection. After the final stage of dissection, BUGs were either level with the caudal edge of the ischium or below the ischium. Conclusions and relevance Ventral dissection of the fibrous attachments between the urethra and pelvis effected significant caudal translation of the urethra. This step is crucial for minimising tension on the final stoma and reducing the risk of postoperative stenosis for PU.