Percutaneous intrapelvic pressure registration in hydronephrosis during diuresis

Percutaneous registration of renal pelvis pressure was undertaken successfully in 17 of 22 patients with unilateral hydronephrosis. Intrapelvic pressure was registered continuously during diuresis induced by mannitol and Urografin. In 10 cases additional increase in urine flow was induced by administration of furosemide. Ureteric urine flow was recorded through a cystoscopically introduced catheter on the side under investigation in 7 cases. The basic pressure was on average 12 mmHg and more than 20 mmHg in 2 cases only. No correlation was found between baseline pressure and degree of hydronephrosis. The intrapelvic pressure rose during forced diuresis with a few exceptions within normal limits. No correlation was demonstrated between pressure rise and renographically estimated kidney function. Pelvic peristaltic activity was detectable in only 3 cases. It is concluded that preoperative registration of renal pelvic pressure during diuresis as performed in this study is of no value in selection of the method of treatment in patients with hydronephrosis.