Renal haemodynamics and prostaglandin synthesis in partial unilateral ureteric obstruction

Haemodynamic changes in partial unilateral ureteric obstruction (PUUO) may be related to altered prostaglandin synthesis. In 12 dogs the left ureter was partially obstructed for 5 weeks. In six dogs the ureter was reimplanted into the bladder and to investigate the effect of this procedure on the contralateral side the other six animals underwent ipsilateral nephroureterectomy. Renal blood flow (RBF) was measured by the distribution of radiolabelled microspheres. Changes in urinary prostaglandin (PG) concentrations were validated by renin activity using angiotensin I. Reduced left RBF during obstruction was associated with increased thromboxane A2 synthesis (P < 0.01). Increased RBF to the non-obstructed side was associated with elevated PGE2 formation (P < 0.05). Elevated angiotensin I levels (P < 0.01) corresponded to maximal increases in PG synthesis. Reimplantation of the obstructed kidney did not exert a direct effect on contralateral RBF or PG concentration. Haemodynamic changes in PUUO in vivo are associated with alterations in renal PGs.