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Warning!! Graphic photos of a surgical procedure
The structure in the radiograph is the urinary bladder filled with bladder stones! They vary in size with the largest stones on top and tiniest sitting on the bottom of the bladder. It is not uncommon for cats and dogs to develop bladder stones, but it is unusual to see this many stones!
Close up view
Bladder stones can develop for various reasons including metabolic disorders, urinary tract infections, and heredity.
Dr. Cooley elects surgery to remove the stones from the bladder. Here he uses a sterile spoon to scoop the stones out. Molly assists with the operation.
It was also necessary to flush the tiny stones out through the urethra.
In this photo, the bladder has been sutured closed. This surgery was unusually bloody due to increased irritation and inflammation of the bladder.
Here are photos of the stones after they are removed. They will be sent to a laboratory to identify what type of stones they are. Knowing their make-up will assist Dr. Cooley with the treatment plan for the patient.
What a collection!
Here is the radiograph taken after surgery. The dark area in the center of the bladder is air. Note the surgical staples in the lower part of the x-ray that were used to close the skin.
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