A rat model for investigation of spinal mechanisms in detrusor instability associated with infravesical outflow obstruction

Summary A rat model of infravesical outflow obstruction was modified to allow cystometric investigation in conscious, free-moving animals after intrathecal drug administration. The catheter position and extent of drug distribution were controlled by injection of dye and dissection of the spinal canal. Continuous cystometries were performed in awake normal rats as well as rats with bladder hypertrophy and hyperactivity following infravesical outflow obstruction. In some animals of each group, cystometry was performed with simultaneous recording of intra-abdominal pressure. The possible effects of the presence of the intrathecal catheter were studied, as well as the effects of saline, local anesthetics, morphine and naloxone administered through the catheter. Neither the presence of the intrathecal catheter nor injection of saline affected the cystometric pattern. Bupivacaine (50 g) produced paralysis of both lower extremities and a complete, though reversible, suppression of micturition in normal rats. In rats with hypertrophy, intrathecal bupivacaine in doses of 50 g and 100 g produced decreases in micturition pressure, increases in bladder capacity and dribbling incontinence. However, the amplitude of spontaneous contractile activity increased after the administration. The inhibitory effects of morphine (0.5–10 g) on micturition in normal rats, which were rapidly reversed by naloxone, were in accordance with results obtained in previous studies in anesthetized animals. Rats with bladder hypertrophy showed a similar response to morphine and naloxone. However, the bladder hyperactivity was not inhibited by morphine. We conclude that the present model seems reliable for the study of spinal mechanisms in the development of detrusor instability associated with infravesical outflow obstruction.