Segmental arteries

Definition

Segmental arteries are branches of the renal artery that supply blood to different segments of the kidney. They play a critical role in delivering oxygenated blood required for kidney function and filtration processes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Segmental arteries arise from the renal artery, which is a direct branch of the abdominal aorta.
2. There are typically five segmental arteries in each kidney, named after the regions they supply: superior, anterior superior, anterior inferior, inferior, and posterior.
3. These arteries further divide into interlobar arteries as they penetrate deeper into the kidney tissue.
4. Obstruction or damage to segmental arteries can significantly impair kidney function due to reduced blood flow.
5. Each segmental artery supplies an independent vascular segment of the kidney, which is important for surgical procedures such as partial nephrectomy.

Review Questions

Related terms

renal artery: The main blood vessel that supplies oxygenated blood to the kidneys directly from the abdominal aorta

interlobar arteries:

Branches of segmental arteries that run between the renal pyramids and supply blood to different areas within these structures

partial nephrectomy: A surgical procedure where part of a kidney is removed, often necessitating precise knowledge of segmental arterial supply