Effects Of Alpha-Blocker On Ureteral Dynamics With And Without A Ureteral Stone: An In Vivo...

ORLANDO, FL (UroToday.com) - Medical expulsive therapy for ureteral calculi has been established in several randomized controlled clinical trials. However, the exact mechanism of action and the extent of their influence on renal pelvic and ureteral dynamics has not been elucidated. In a novel model, Das and colleagues from Saint Louis, Missouri studied the effects of an oral alpha blocker (alfuzosin HCL) on ureteral peristalsis, intrapelvic pressure (IPP) and stone movement. Twenty four domestic pigs were randomized to 4 groups (6 animals in each group). Group 1: Controls with normal ureter, Group 2: animals with ureteral stone and no -blocker therapy, Group 3: animals treated with an alpha blocker but had no ureteral stone, and Group 4: animals that were given an alpha blocker and had a ureteral stone. Ureteral peristalsis... [read full story]