Validation of a new rat model of urethral sphincter injury and leak point pressure measurements.

Aims: experiments were performed to establish and validate a rat model of urethral sphincter injury and to develop a method for leak point pressure (LPP) measurements performed repeatedly in the same animal.

Methods: Twenty-four Sprague-Dawley female rats underwent bladder and epidural catheter implantation. Five days later, cystometry was performed using continuous infusion.

Evaluating the Procedure for Performing Awake Cystometry in a Mouse Model.

Awake filling cystometry has been used for a long time to evaluate bladder function in freely moving mice, however, the specific methods used, vary among laboratories. The goal of this study was to describe the microsurgical procedure used to implant an intravesical tube and the experimental technique for recording urinary bladder pressure in an awake, freely moving mouse. In addition, experimental data is presented to show how surgery, as well as tubing type and size, affect lower urinary tract function and recording sensitivity.