Modifications of ureteric peristalsis by local anaesthetic. An experimental study in dogs.

An in vivo study of the response of the dog ureter to local anaesthetics administered systemically and by ureteric perfusion, revealed that lidocaine, procaine, and mepivacaine, caused hyperperistalsis. The intravenous use of a near toxic dose produced hyperperistalsis of limited duration, whereas, intraureteric administration produced a prolonged and constant response with low dosage. The mode of action of these drugs is unclear as they are generally regarded as being non specific smooth muscle depressants. Continued peristalsis after prolonged exposure to local anaesthetic favours a myogenic rather than neurogenic conduction of the ureteric contraction wave.