Intrarenal haemodynamics in postobstructive diuresis in the dog

Intrarenal haemodynamics were investigated in the dog prior to and after relief of 24 hr bilateral ureteral ligation (BUL), by the radioactive microsphere technique. Prior to release of 24 hr BUL there was an about 50% reduction in total blood flow (RBR), with a nearly proprotional decrease in the perfusion of the four cortical layers. Following release of the obstruction, total renal and outer cortical (zones 1 and 2) blood flow remained diminished, while perfusion of the inner (juxtamedullary) layers (zones 3 and 4) increased as compared to its prerelease values and equalled controls. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) amounted to about 27% of controls in the postrelease phase. A marked increase in absolute and fractional sodium water excretion was observed after release of 24 hr BUL, as contrasted to normal controls and dogs after 24 hr unilateral ureteral ligation (UUL). This state, designated as postopstructive diuresis, might be explained by redistribution of intrarenal blood flow towards the juxtamedullary zones, and by a powerful natriuretic substance accumulated during complete obstruction.