Describe the location of the kidneys
List the layers of the external anatomy of the kidneys
From inside to outside:
Renal capsule
Thin, fibrous sac, dense irregular connective tissue. Adheres closely to kidney. Maintains shape and protects from trauma and infection.
Adipose capsule of kidneys
Layer of fat - surrounds renal capsule. Protects and supports the kidney.
Renal fascia
Layer of tissue, passes in front of and behind both kidneys to anchor them to the peritoneum and posterior abdominal wall. Dense, irregular connective tissue, attaches to renal capsule by strings of fibres. Provides anchorage of kidneys to surrounding tissues.
List the sections of the internal anatomy of the kidneys
From outside to inside:
Renal cortex
Dark outer 1cm of kidney, contains arcuate + interlobar arteries + veins + cortical nephrons (except parts of loop of Henle + collecting ducts - in medulla). Where ultrafiltration takes place.
Renal columns
Extensions of cortex - project in between the pyramids of the medulla - anchor the cortex.
Renal medulla
Inner section of kidney, contains renal pyramids. Appears striated - contains tubular systems of the juxtamedullary nephrons, parts of loop of Henle + collecting ducts of cortical nephrons
Describe the route which urine takes after production
Renal pyramids
Renal papilla
- Where all urine from collecting ducts drains into minor calyces
Minor calyces
Major calyces
Renal pelvis
Describe the passage of blood through the kidneys
Renal arteries
- Branch into segmental arteries
Segmental arteries
Interlobar arteries
- Pass through renal column
Arcuate arteries
Leave interlobar arteries at right angles, branch over outer surface of pyramids, forming arterial anastomosis.
Interlobular arteries
Capillary network of the kidneys
Interlobular veins
- Drain cortex into arcuate veins
Arcuate veins
- Travel down renal columns as interlobular veins - forming a venous anastomosis