Colposuspension in 60 bitches with incompetence of the urethral sphincter mechanism

Sixty bitches presented to the University of Melbourne Veterinary Clinic and Hospital with a history of persistent urinary incontinence. Clinical and radiographic findings were suggestive of a diagnosis of urethral sphincter mechanism incompetence. Forty-three bitches developed incontinence as adults whilst 17 bitches were congenitally affected. All animals were unresponsive to medical therapy. Colposuspension alone was performed in all animals. Fifty-seven bitches were available for long term follow up. Forty percent were totally cured, 42% were markedly improved or totally continent with medication and 18% failed to respond. Bitches that acquired urethral mechanism incompetence were more likely to have a successful outcome than those that were congenitally affected. Adult bitches that became incontinent greater than six months after desexing were also more like to be cured