The Abnormal Ureter in Children: II. Perfusion Studies on the Refluxing Ureter

Abstract

Pressure measurements in the ureter were performed in 19 patients with vesico-ureteric reflux. So as not to disturb the vesico-ureteric junction a method was used in which catheters were inserted in the ureter via ureteric puncture during operation. the behaviour of the ureteric pressure during varying bladder pressures and/or ureteric perfusion was studied. Most refluxing ureters seemed to show good peristaltic activity if the ureteric flow was adequate. A passive equilibration pressure between bladder and ureter appeared to be relatively unusual. A ureteric outflow obstruction seemed to be uncommon. For evaluation of the indications for operation the roentgenological appearance of the ureter seems to be of less importance than renal damage and/or recurrent urinary tract infections.