The Canine Urethra: A Comparison of First and Second Intention Healing

Urethrotomy was performed on 12 normal male dogs at the base of the os penis. The surgical site was allowed to heal by second intention in six dogs, and suture closure of the urethral mucosa, tunica albuginea, and subcuticular tissue was performed in six dogs. All dogs were maintained for 60 days postoperatively. Packed cell volume and serum total protein were measured before surgery and at 2, 4, 7, 14, and 60 days postoperatively. Suture closure of the urethra resulted in less hemorrhage during the postoperative recovery period. Urethral mucosal irregularity was seen in urethrograms performed on all operated dogs 60 days postoperatively. Urethral stricture was not observed in any of the dogs in this study.