Successful complete vaginectomy in dorsal recumbency: description of surgical technique without repositioning combining celiotomy and episiotomy in three dogs.

Abstract

Objective: To describe a simultaneous surgical approach to the abdominal cavity and perineum for complete vaginectomy performed in dorsal recumbency and to create a schematic for guiding the procedure without the need for patient repositioning.

Animals: 3 client-owned dogs with urogenital pathology.

Clinical presentation: The first dog, an 11-year-old neutered female Border Collie, presented with stranguria and tenesmus. The second dog, a 13-year-old intact female Cocker Spaniel, was referred for further investigation of a vaginal mass. The third dog, a 12-year-old intact female Border Collie, presented with polyuria/polydipsia and vaginal discharge.

Results: Data concerning complete vaginectomies performed in dorsal recumbency between June 2023 and June 2024 were retrospectively reviewed. A single intraoperative complication, involving perforation of the caudal urethra, was encountered in the third dog. Postoperative complications included intermittent urinary incontinence responsive to medical treatment in the first dog and transient self-limiting urinary incontinence in 2 dogs. Long-term follow-up revealed excellent outcomes with satisfactory cosmetic results for the first, second, and third dogs, with follow-up periods of 12, 8, and 4 months, respectively. No complications related to positioning were encountered, and no conversions were required.

Clinical relevance: The combination of ventral midline celiotomy with episiotomy in dorsal recumbency is a feasible, well-tolerated technique that provides optimal surgical access and visualization. Eliminating the need for intraoperative repositioning reduces anesthetic and surgical times while maintaining sterility, stability, and continuous monitoring.