Œstrus Hemorrhoidalis. Mare.
SPASM OF NECK OF BLADDER.
Spasm of the cervix vesicæ has been doubted, save as the result of local inflammation, yet it not uncommonly takes place in horses and other animals in connection with irritation attendant on the retention of urine during work, or in dogs during a period passed indoors. Trouble and suffering continues, with ineffectual efforts to micturate, but practically complete relief is secured by catheterization or by a spontaneous abundant discharge. The neurosis which leads to it is produced or aggravated at times by enlarged prostate, or lesions in the urethra. Intense fear may cause it.
Treatment. Remove cause. Give antispasmodics, valerian, musk, bromides, chloral hydrate, opium, stramonium, hyoscyamus, codeine, etc., may be given as injections or suppositories. For the horse spread the litter and soothe by whistle or song. Or use the catheter and correct any local irritation.
RUPTURE AND LACERATION OF THE BLADDER.
This occurs most commonly in oxen from obstruction of the urethra by a calculus. Similar obstruction in the horse causes most acute symptoms, calling for immediate relief, and rupture is a comparatively rare occurrence. Pench mentions a case resulting from a fall during an attack of colic, and with a full bladder. It has happened during lithotrity, or lithotomy, and even during parturition. Perforation by parasites has been noted and in one case by an osseous tumor of the pubic symphysis. In horses a fatal result is prompt, in cattle from 6 to 48 days.
Treatment surgical.
EVERSION OF THE BLADDER.
This is really invagination into the female urethra and bladder. It has only been seen in mares, and then by reason of the extreme dilatability of the urethra. A pyriform, red, perhaps rugose tumor shows between the lips of the vulva, during straining. It is covered by mucosa, and on its upper surface near to its neck are two small orifices from which urine oozes or comes in jets during active expulsive efforts. It soon becomes muco-purulent on the surface, and even excoriated. Urine escaping continuously trickles down the thighs with much fœtor. It occurs especially during violent expulsive efforts as in parturition or constipation.
Treatment essentially surgical consists in uniform compression to expel blood and exudate followed by the pushing of the fundus through the bladder and urethra. The more recent the case, the easier is the process. Pressecq claims to have cured an obstinately recurring case, by cauterizing the urethra up to the cervix vesicæ with a round iron rod an inch in diameter. The resulting loss of substance, with the neoplasia and constriction effectually prevented renewed eversion even during parturition. Other veterinarians have successfully excised the bladder, but this entailed incontinence and constant offensive soaking of the thighs with urine.