Wire-Calibrated Induction of Segmental Ureteral Strictures in Rats via Midline Laparotomy.

Abstract

Ureteral strictures remain a major challenge in reconstructive urology and can arise from iatrogenic injury, chronic inflammation, trauma, congenital anomalies, or radiation.​ These lesions frequently lead to progressive obstructive uropathy and loss of renal function. Despite advances in endoscopic and surgical techniques, ureteral strictures remain challenging to address, and their remodeling effects on the renal parenchyma remain the subject of ongoing research, underscoring the need for robust preclinical models. This study establishes a reproducible rat model for controlled induction of various degrees of segmental ureteral strictures using wire‑calibrated partial ligation via midline laparotomy. The protocol enables segmental, non‑transecting constriction of the ureter, intended to approximate fibrotic narrowing at a functional and anatomical level while minimizing evident ischemic damage and maintaining macroscopic tissue viability with ureteral continuity. By providing a reliable experimental platform with low inter‑animal and inter-surgeon variability, this approach supports translational research on biomolecular mechanisms, biomaterials, imaging modalities, and reconstructive techniques for ureteral stricture disease.