Statistical properties of the temporal and spatial distribution of interperistaltic intervals and their relationship to pacemaker and respiratory rhythmicity.

A straightforward method is outlined for the presentation of the temporal and spatial characteristics of interperistaltic intervals obtained from the canine ureter. The fundamental statistical property of ureteral peristaltic contractions is demonstrated to be multimodal. This is characterized by a basic rate and whole number multiples of that rate. The methods for identifying the relationship of peristalsis with the pacemaker and respiratory rate is outlined.