The effect of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy on distribution of interstitial cells of Cajal in rabbit renal pelvis and proximal ureter.

BACKGROUND/AIM An experimental study was performed to evaluate the effect of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) on the distribution of interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) in rabbit renal pelvis and proximal ureter. MATERIALS AND METHODS Six New Zealand rabbits were included. Right kidneys were exposed to a total of 3000 shock waves (14 kV) by using an electrohydraulic-type ESWL device. Right sides were allocated as the ESWL group (EG, n = 6) and left sides as the control group (CG, n = 6). Tissues were harvested on day 7. Tissues were examined histopathologically for the presence of edema, inflammation, congestion, hemorrhage, fibrosis, and vascularization. Mast cell tryptase and CD 117 (c-kit) staining was performed for ICC distribution. RESULTS Although increased tissue edema in renal pelvises and increased inflammation in ureters were observed in EG, no statistical difference was detected between groups (P > 0.05). In CG, positive CD117 staining was detected in 2 renal pelvises and ureters. None of the EG samples showed CD117 staining and no statistical difference was detected between groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION Rabbit does not appear to be a good model for investigating ICCs. ESWL may cause histopathological alterations in the renal pelvis and ureter. Since it has not been statistically proven, reduced contractility of the ureter after ESWL may not be attributed to altered distribution of ICCs in the renal pelvis and ureter.