Ureter

Definition

The ureter is a muscular tube that transports urine from the kidneys to the urinary bladder. Each kidney has one ureter, and they play a crucial role in the excretory system.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The ureters are about 25-30 cm long in adults.
2. Ureteral peristalsis helps move urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
3. The inner lining of the ureter is composed of transitional epithelium which can stretch and contract.
4. The ureters enter the bladder at an angle that helps prevent urine from flowing back into them.
5. Obstruction or infection in the ureter can lead to severe health issues such as hydronephrosis.

Review Questions

• What function do peristaltic movements serve in the ureters?
• How do the ureters prevent backflow of urine into the kidneys?
• What type of epithelial tissue lines the inner surface of the ureters?

Related terms

Kidneys:

The organs that filter blood to produce urine, which is then transported by the ureters.

Urinary Bladder: The organ where urine is stored before being excreted from the body.

Peristalsis:

The wave-like muscle contractions that move substances, including urine, through tubular structures like the ureters.