Patent urachus
Also known as: Persistierender Urachus · Urachusfistel · Persistent urachus · Urachal patency · Offener Urachus
Overview
What it is
A patent urachus is a birth defect affecting the urinary system where the temporary tube connecting an unborn puppy's bladder to the belly button, known as the umbilicus, fails to close before birth. Normally, this channel seals off completely, but when it remains open, it allows urine to leak from the navel. This creates an abnormal direct pathway between the bladder and the outside of the body.
How it presents
Owners typically notice symptoms shortly after birth, including a constantly wet belly or urine dripping directly from the puppy's navel. This persistent moisture often leads to localized skin irritation and can cause recurring urinary tract infections.
Treatment
The condition is highly treatable and can be permanently resolved with a single surgical procedure to close the open channel. This corrective surgery typically costs between 800 and 2500 EUR.
How it's tested
Klinische und sonographische Untersuchung des Urachus(Urachus-Diagnostik)
Primary testUltrasoundDie Diagnose wird durch den Nachweis von Urinaustritt am Nabel sowie mittels Ultraschall oder Kontrastmittel-Röntgen (Zystographie) zur Darstellung der persistierenden Verbindung gesichert.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Cardiac-OFA
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Patent urachus?
A patent urachus is a birth defect affecting the urinary system where the temporary tube connecting an unborn puppy's bladder to the belly button, known as the umbilicus, fails to close before birth. Normally, this channel seals off completely, but when it remains open, it allows urine to leak from the navel. This creates an abnormal direct pathway between the bladder and the outside of the body.
How is Patent urachus tested?
Tests currently in our database: Klinische und sonographische Untersuchung des Urachus.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.