Intro to Anatomy

Question 1

Explain why kidneys are so vulnerable to ischemic damage. (2) Name 3 examples of how this could occur. (3)

Answer 1

They require a high blood supply because of their high metabolic rate. Decreased BP, Decreased perfusion, renal artery blockage.

Question 2

Describe the position of the right kidney. (2)

Answer 2

Retroperitoneal, sits T12 to L3 (lower because of liver).

Question 3

Describe the position of the left kidney (2)

Answer 3

Retroperitoneal, sits T12 to L2.

Question 4

Describe the functions of the kidney. (4)

Give an example of each function. (4)

Answer 4

Regulation: control the concentrations of substances in the ECF.
Excretion of waste: urea in urine.
Endocrine: synthesis of renin, EPO and prostaglandins
Metabolism: activate vitamin D, catabolism of insulin.

Question 5

Describe the relationship of the ureters to other surrounding structures. (4)

Answer 5

Run in line with the tips of the transverse processes and line of the sacroiliac joints.
Enters bladder posteriorly at level of iliac spine.
Passes under the uterine arteries (“Water under the
bridge”).
Passes anterior to the Ductus Deferens.

Question 6

Describe the pouches found in the pelvis in men and women. (3)

Answer 6

In men, the vesico-rectal pouch.

In women, the vesico-uterine pouch (AKA pouch of Douglas) and the recto-uterine pouch.

Question 7

Describe the relationship of the kidneys to the abdominal aorta and the IVC. (4)

Answer 7

IVC runs on the right, AA runs on the left.
This means that the left kidney has a short renal artery and a long renal vein, and the right kidney has a short renal vein and a long renal artery.
The left gonadal vein drains into the left renal vein, instead of straight into the IVC like the right gonadal vein.

Question 8

Describe the uses of USS in urinary system imaging. Give one advantage and one disadvantage of using USS. (5)

Answer 8

Can be used to assess size, location and shape of kidneys, as well as cysts, tumours, abscesses, obstructions and infection.
The bladder and ureters can also be assessed.
No radiation recieved, but very operator dependent.

Question 9

Describe the uses of CT scans in urinary system imaging. Give one advantage and one disadvantage of using CT scans. (4)

Answer 9

Can detect tumours, stones, congenital abnormalities, and polycystic kidney disease.
Very clear picture received, but uses nephrotoxic contrast and high doses of radiation.

Question 10

Describe the use of intravenous urography in urinary system imaging. Give one advantage and one disadvantage of this. (5)

Answer 10

Contrast fluid is given IV and allowed time for the kidneys to begin clearing the contrast. X-rays are taken at intervals to check for obstructions or leaks.
Useful, real time clearance imaging, but contrast is nephrotoxic and it involves lots of x-rays so lots of radiation.