Ureteric tunnel incision in the fetal pig: a model for non-obstructive prenatal vesicoureteric reflux

Abstract

The understanding of vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) continues to improve, particularly as the renal tract can now be assessed prenatally. To further study the evolution of fetal renal changes, we studied two neonatal piglets that had undergone midgestation ureteric tunnel ablation. Dilatation of the pelvicalyceal system was seen radiologically and macroscopically in all three kidneys into which VUR had been created. Despite the study being marred by poor fetal survival, the results indicate that the model should be developed further to explore what appears to be an interrelationship between VUR and renal parenchymal changes in utero.