16th February 2024

Kidneys

The kidneys are retroperitoneal and are located at the level of T12-L3, with the right kidney slightly lower than the left. The renal parenchyma is divided into the renal cortex and medulla. The renal cortex is the outer aspect of renal parenchyma, which contains renal corpuscles (glomeruli, vessels), proximal portions of collecting tubules, and parts of the loop of Henle. The inner portion of renal parenchyma contains renal pyramids, distal parts of collecting tubules, and parts of the loop of Henle. 

The collecting tubules will eventually drain into the minor and major calyx before emptying into the ureter. The blood supply to the kidneys originates from the renal artery, and venous drainage occurs via the renal vein.