![]() ![]() The kidneys are protected in front by the contents of the abdomen and behind by the muscles attached to the spine. ![]() The kidneys are highly vascular (contain a lot of blood vessels) and are divided into three main regions: the renal cortex (outer region which contains about 1.25 million renal tubules), renal medulla (middle region which acts as a collecting chamber), and renal pelvis (inner region which receives urine through the major calyces). The kidneys are about 4 1/2 inches long and 2 1/2 inches wide. The right kidney often sits slightly lower than the left one because of the position of the liver. The adrenal glands (part of the endocrine system) sit on top of the kidneys and release a hormone called renin which helps to regulate blood pressure, and sodium (or salt) and water retention. They lie against the back of the abdominal wall, outside the peritoneal cavity (which contains all of the bowels), just above the waistline in the lumbar (low back) region. The bean-shaped kidneys are about the size of a closed fist. This image shows the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. ![]() Renal System Anatomy The Renal System Kidney Anatomy Kidney Function Nephron Anatomy Nephron Function What is urine made of? Kidney Disease and Disorders Kidney Transplant Renal System Anatomy ![]()
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