Laparoscopic repair of a bladder rupture in 2 foals

Abstract

The laparoscopic repair of a bladder rupture using an endoscopic automatic suturing device (Endostich®) in two foals is described. The foals were positioned in dorsal recumbency. In both foals the tear was detected in the dorsocranial part of the bladder. The defect was closed in two layers of inverting continuous sutures. Successful repair seemed not limited by accessibility, whereas the bladder could be approached from all directions. Based on the described cases the laparoscopic approach of bladder ruptures seems to be a viable option to operate minimally invasive and has the advantage of a short reconvalesence period, although the experience is admittedly limited. The mean operating time (which includes preparation of the patient) is still longer then for conventional surgery.