The Innervation of the Ureter, with Respect to Denervation

Abstract

The ureter in man receives a nerve supply independent of that of the kidney and bladder. These nerves pass directly to the ureter from the lowest renal ganglion and the abdominal sympathetics. Study was also made of the constitution of the solar plexus in relation to the renal and urinary innervation. Preliminary observations were made on connections between the innervation of the ureter and that of the ovary, testes and parietal peritoneum. At operation on patients the ureteral nerves can be dissected and removed. Ureteral denervation does not interfere with peristalsis and is not followed by atony, hydro-ureter or other disturbance of function. In 7 cases of extreme and chronic ureteral pain, ureteral denervation was performed: in 4 the operation was followed by disappearance of pain. The suggestion is offered that the ureteral nerves convey sensations of pain.