Experimental study of ureteral free grafts. II. Urographic findings of integrated graft.

OBJECTIVE: An experimental study was conducted in rats to assess urographically the function of the integrated autologous free graft (IAFG) of the ureter, in which the ureter is reimplanted after being extracted from the animal's body and involves complete devascularization and ureteral ischemia. METHODS: The technique employed included direct vascular injection of contrast (iliac vein). The 40 rats were randomly distributed into three groups: NU group (n = 20), normal ureter; SC group (n = 15), surgical control, only ureterolysis; RU group (n = 14), reimplanted ureter as IAFG. RESULTS: The results show the urographic characteristics of the normal ureter (NU). The SC group IVUS were not distinct from those of the NU group. In the RU group, the segment of the ureter used as IAFG showed a normal or abnormal urographic image, depending on the result of the anastomosis. No ureteral fistula or leakage was observed in the urograms.