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Use of a rigid endoscope to teach urethral catheterization of the female dog

Abstract

Urethral catheterization of the female dog is known to be a challenging procedure. The authors describe a catheterization technique in which they use a rigid endoscope to visualize the canine urogenital vestibule during the procedure. The technique is particularly helpful as a training tool for students who are not yet experienced with the canine anatomy. The endoscope is attached to a video camera and monitor, allowing others to observe and learn the procedure.

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Figure 1
Figure 2: Canine urogenital vestibule, as viewed through a rigid endoscope.
Figure 3: Relevant anatomy of the canine vestibule inflated with warmed saline, as viewed through a rigid endoscope.
Figure 4: With the subject in a standing position in a sling, the rigid endoscope is placed between the vulvar folds (arrowhead) and directed in a craniodorsal manner.
Figure 5
Figure 6

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Acknowledgements

We thank Marcie J. Donnelly for her help in preparing the images used in this paper.

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Correspondence to Gregory O. Voronin.

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The authors declare no competing financial interests.

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Voronin, G., Porter, W., Wickham, L. et al. Use of a rigid endoscope to teach urethral catheterization of the female dog. Lab Anim 38, 271–274 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1038/laban0809-271

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