Fluid mechanical modeling of the upper urinary tract

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Fluid Mechanics
• Urology

Background:

• The upper urinary tract (UUT), comprising kidneys and ureters, is vital for the urogenital system.
• UUT dysfunctions, including congenital anomalies, infections, urolithiasis, and cancers, significantly impact patient quality of life and necessitate urological interventions.
• Developing physiologically accurate models is essential for addressing UUT-related scientific and clinical challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a historical overview of fluid mechanical models for the upper urinary tract.
• To introduce engineers, scientists, and clinicians to the field of UUT fluid mechanics.
• To summarize current knowledge and offer a comprehensive introduction to UUT fluid mechanical modeling.

Main Methods:

• Review of theoretical, computational, and experimental approaches in UUT fluid mechanical modeling.
• Inclusion of descriptions of the physiological functionality of UUT components.
• Presentation of mechanical characterizations relevant to the UUT.

Main Results:

• An overview of the historical evolution of fluid mechanical models for the UUT.
• Detailed descriptions of UUT physiological functions and mechanical properties.
• A summary of current knowledge in the field.

Conclusions:

• Fluid mechanical modeling plays a pivotal role in understanding and addressing UUT complications.
• The article serves as a comprehensive introduction for interdisciplinary professionals interested in UUT fluid mechanics.
• This review consolidates knowledge on UUT fluid mechanics, aiding future research and clinical applications.