Biomed Eng Lett.  2018 Feb;8(1):117-125. 10.1007/s13534-017-0053-0.

A computational model of ureteral peristalsis and an investigation into ureteral reflux

• Hosseini G
• Ji C
• Xu D
• Rezaienia
• Avital E
• Munjiza A
• Williams J
• Green JS

• KMID: 2439540
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.1007/s13534-017-0053-0

Abstract

The aim of this study is to create a computational model of the human ureteral system that accurately replicates the peristaltic movement of the ureter for a variety of physiological and pathological functions. The objectives of this research are met using our in-house fluidstructural dynamics code (CgLes-Y code). A realistic peristaltic motion of the ureter is modelled using a novel piecewise linear force model. The urodynamic responses are investigated under two conditions of a healthy and a depressed contraction force. A ureteral pressure during the contraction shows a very good agreement with corresponding clinical data. The results also show a dependency of the wall shear stresses on the contraction velocity and it confirms the presence of a high shear stress at the proximal part of the ureter. Additionally, it is shown that an inefficient lumen contraction can increase the possibility of a continuous reflux during the propagation of peristalsis.

Keyword

CFD; Ureter; Reflux; PUJ; VUJ; VUR

MeSH Terms

Humans
Peristalsis*
Ureter*
Urodynamics