Skip to main content
Ch. 15 The Urinary System
Marieb - Essentials of Human Anatomy & Physiology 13th Edition
Marieb13th EditionEssentials of Human Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780135624340Non è quello che usi tu?Cambia libro di testo
Capitolo 15, Problema 10

Describe the location of the kidneys in the body.

Guida verificata passo dopo passo
1
The kidneys are located in the posterior abdominal cavity, on either side of the vertebral column.
They are positioned retroperitoneally, meaning they lie behind the peritoneum, the membrane lining the abdominal cavity.
The right kidney is typically slightly lower than the left kidney due to the presence of the liver on the right side.
The kidneys are protected by the lower ribs and surrounded by layers of fat and connective tissue, which help cushion and anchor them in place.
Each kidney is located between the levels of the T12 and L3 vertebrae, with the upper poles closer to the thoracic spine and the lower poles closer to the lumbar spine.

Risposta video verificata per un problema simile:

Questa soluzione video è stata consigliata dai nostri tutor come utile per risolvere questo problema.
Durata del video:
2m

Concetti chiave

Ecco i concetti essenziali che devi comprendere per rispondere correttamente alla domanda.

Anatomical Position

The anatomical position is a standard reference point used in anatomy to describe the location of body parts. In this position, the body is standing upright, facing forward, with arms at the sides and palms facing forward. Understanding this position is crucial for accurately describing the location of organs, including the kidneys.
Video consigliato:
02:40
Anatomical Position

Retroperitoneal Space

The kidneys are located in the retroperitoneal space, which is the area behind the peritoneum, the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity. This positioning means that the kidneys are not situated within the abdominal cavity itself but rather behind it, providing a protective environment and anchoring them to the posterior abdominal wall.
Video consigliato:
2:13
Organization of the Body: Abdominopelvic Cavity Example 1

Kidney Location and Function

The kidneys are typically located on either side of the vertebral column, at the level of the T12 to L3 vertebrae. Their position is significant not only for anatomical understanding but also for their function in filtering blood and producing urine, as their placement allows for efficient vascular supply and drainage through the renal arteries and veins.
Video consigliato:
1:01
The Kidneys Example 2