[The effect of beta-stimulation and beta-1-blockade on the motility of the upper urinary tract]

18 patients with severe congestion of the urinary tract in pregnancy were treated by implantation of ureteral catheters for intermittend exoneration. Before and during the infusion of 2 micrograms/min Fenoterol the basal tone, the frequency and amplitude of the contractions of the renal pelvis were measured after retrograde filling with increasing volumes. 45 min after the i.v. application of 10 mg Metoprolol the measurements were repeated under the same conditions. During the infusion of Fenoterol there was a significant decrease of the frequency and amplitude of the contractions of the renal pelvis. Whereas at low retrograde filling volumes the basal tone in the renal pelvis decreased, at higher filling volumes - because of the concomittant deteriation of the urine transport capacity - an increase of the basal tone could be found. The relaxant effects of the beta-stimulation on the upper urinary tract could be diminished by the application of the beta-1-blocker Metoprolol; a complete compensation however was not possible.