Pubic fractures secondary to extended transpelvic urethrostomy in a cat.

OBJECTIVE

To report the occurrence and describe the management of pubic fractures after the use of an extended transpelvic urethrostomy (TPU) to treat postprostatic intrapelvic urethral obstruction and laceration in a cat.

ANIMAL

One 6-year-old domestic short-haired cat.

STUDY DESIGN

Case report.

METHODS

A cat was presented with urethral obstruction and laceration confirmed by positive contrast retrograde urethrography. Temporary urinary diversion was performed. An attempt was made to perform perineal urethrostomy, but the cranial location of the laceration precluded this technique. An extended TPU was performed, which required removal of 30% to 60% greater length of pelvic bone than has been previously described.

RESULTS

Bilateral pubic ramus fractures occurred 1 week after surgery, from which the cat clinically improved with cage rest, and exhibited evidence of healing according to computed tomography after 8 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Extended TPU used to treat postprostatic intrapelvic urethral laceration may lead to pubic fractures postoperatively.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

It may be prudent to rest any cat that has had a TPU or extended TPU to reduce fracture risk.