Perineal transsphincteric derivation of urine. Experimental study in rabbits.
AIM OF THE STUDY: We present the experimental results of a new technique that makes use of the anal sphincter to achieve urinary continence in individuals with major congenital defects of the urinary sphincter. METHODS: 50 New Zealand White rabbits were assigned to one of 6 groups and a different surgical procedure was carried out for each group under general anaesthesia with isoflurane alone or isoflurane and local anaesthesia. Variables of interest were: number, consistency and morphology of the faeces, number, shape and location of the stains of urine, histological changes and biochemical parameters in blood. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The best anaesthetic levels were obtained with 2 % isoflurane and local anaesthesia. The surgical procedure demonstrated its usefulness in achieving urinary continence in all rabbits, although an initial self-limited period of incontinence was common. No histologic alterations were detected, but a significant increase in the levels of urea and creatinine in blood was identified, most likely reflecting an obstructive uropathy.