GINKGO BILOBA EXTRACT MAINTAINS RENAL PERFUSION IN PARTIAL UNILATERAL URETERAL OBSTRUCTIONS

Abstract

The aim of this experimental study was to examine the effect on Doppler parameters of Ginkgo biloba glycosides in partial unilateral ureteral obstruction in rabbits. Twelve rabbits were divided into two groups. Baseline renal Doppler ultrasonography was performed. Group 1 received Ginkgo biloba (40 mg/d) for I month while group 2, being a sham group, received saline for the same period, prior to partial unilateral ureteral obstruction induction. The left ureter was narrowed by placing a ligature over the catheter. Renal and Doppler ultrasonography was performed to determine kidney structure, resistive (RI) and pulsatility (PI) indices as well as colorisation scores pre-operatively and post-operatively. The sham group had greater RI and PI values and a lower colorisation score than the Ginkgo biloba group. The obstructed kidneys had greater RI and PI values and a lower colorisation score than the non-obstructed kidneys in both groups. The RI value increased and colorisation score decreased to a greater extent for the obstructed control kidney in the sham group than the obstructed treated kidney in the Gingko biloba group. These data suggest that Ginkgo biloba extract may protect and restore renal perfusion in partial unilateral ureteral obstruction and that it may be used to minimise renal parenchymal damage and partially restore kidney function.