6 Questions
What is the primary protective function of the fibrous capsule around the kidney?
It encloses and protects from trauma and infection
How are the kidneys suspended within the body?
By collagen fibers from the fibrous capsule through the fat to the renal fascia
How much do the kidneys drop when a person moves from lying down to standing up?
3 cm
What is nephroptosis commonly referred to as?
Floating kidney
Which shape does the renal parenchyma appear to take in a frontal section of the kidney?
C-shaped
What occupies the renal sinus in the kidney?
Blood and lymphatic vessels, nerves, and urine-collecting structures
Study Notes
Kidney Structure
- The fibrous capsule encloses the kidney, protecting it from trauma and infection, and is anchored at the hilum.
- The kidneys are suspended by collagen fibers that extend from the fibrous capsule through the fat to the renal fascia.
- The renal fascia is fused with the peritoneum anteriorly and the fascia of the lumbar muscles posteriorly.
Kidney Position and Movement
- The kidneys drop about 3 cm when moving from a lying down to standing position.
- In some cases, the kidneys can become detached and drift lower, leading to pathological results, known as nephroptosis or "floating kidney".
The Renal Parenchyma
- The renal parenchyma appears C-shaped in frontal section and produces urine.
- It encircles a medial cavity, the renal sinus, which contains blood and lymphatic vessels, nerves, and urine-collecting structures.
- Adipose tissue fills the remaining space in the sinus, holding the structures in place.
Learn about the fibrous capsule, collagen fibers, renal fascia, and peritoneum that make up the kidney structure and how it functions. Understand how the kidneys are suspended and protected.
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