An active artificial ureter with autonomous energy supply.

For long-term ureteral replacement an artificial ureter has to be able to pump against the outflow resistance into the bladder at any physiological flow rate (0.2-2.0 ml/min). This demand is satisfied only by active prostheses. The active prosthesis described in this paper is driven by the intra-abdominal pressure fluctuations caused by the respiratory movements. The comparison of in vitro results with the parameters of physiological peristalsis proves the applicability of the prosthesis at physiological conditions. Compared to active prostheses with foreign energy supply, this concept promises less burden for patients.