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Comparative ureteral microanatomy
J S Wolf1, P A Humphrey, H J Rayala
1Division of Urologic Surgery, Washington University Medical School, St. Louis, MO, USA.
Journal of Endourology
|December 1, 1996
Summary
Minipigs and farm pigs offer the best ureteral histologic similarity to humans for experimental upper urinary tract surgery. These animal models are optimal for endourologic research, surpassing limitations of other species.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Comparative Anatomy
- Surgical Research
Background:
- Animal models are crucial for studying upper urinary tract surgery.
- Minipigs are increasingly used due to gross anatomical similarities to humans.
- Microanatomic ureteral differences between humans and animal models remain under-explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the microanatomic histological features of human and animal ureters.
- To identify optimal animal models for experimental upper urinary tract surgery.
- To provide data for selecting appropriate animal models in urologic research.
Main Methods:
- Histological evaluation of ureteral cross-sections from humans and various animal species (farm pig, minipig, dog, sheep, rabbit, rat).
- Utilized Masson's trichrome stain for tissue preparation.
- Employed morphometry, linear micrometry, and point-count estimation to analyze smooth muscle/connective tissue ratios and other features.
Main Results:
- Ureteral epithelium was consistent across all species in morphology and size.
- Lamina propria vascularization was high, with variable compactness.
- Significant interspecies differences were observed in the muscularis layer's relative size, smooth muscle percentage, and muscularis-to-lamina propria ratio.
Conclusions:
- Sheep, farm pig, and minipig ureters demonstrate the closest histological resemblance to human ureters.
- Minipigs and farm pigs are optimal models for experimental upper urinary tract surgery, particularly for endourologic approaches, due to their ureteral histology and manageable size.