The physiology and pathophysiology of the ureter.

A review is given of the theories concerning the transport of urine from the calyces to the bladder. The application of hydrodynamic laws on the propulsion of urine, the visco-elastic characteristics of the ureter wall, the myogenic versus the neurogenic origin of spontaneous activity of the ureter and the presence of pacemaker areas, are discussed. The changes of peristaltic activity and intraluminal pressure during obstruction, infection and reflux are summarized.