Introduction And Structure

Question 0

Describe the gross structure of the urinary system in both the male and female

Answer 0

Male - kidney –> ureter –> bladder –> prostate –> urethra
Female - kidney –> ureter –> bladder –> urethra

Question 1

Describe the overall functions of the urinary system

Answer 1

Regulation - control concentration of ions
Excretion - waste products
Endocrine - synthesis of renin, erythropoietin, prostaglandin
Metabolism - active form of Vit. D, catabolism of insulin, PTH calcitonin

Question 2

Describe the anatomical position of the kidneys, bladder and prostate

Answer 2

Kidneys: T11/12 - L3, anterior to quadratus lumborum, inferior to diaphragm, 150g, 12/6/4cm
Bladder: sits on pelvic floor
Prostate: inferior to bladder, anterior to bowel, close to anterior wall of anal canal

Question 3

Describe the course of the ureters and the relationships in the pelvis to the iliac vessels and uterine vessels, ovary/vas deferens and the urethra in both males and females

Answer 3

Renal hilum –> along transverse processes of spine –> cross pelvic brim at level of sacroiliac joint (anterior to bifurcation of common iliac artery)
Male: pass under ductus deferens –> superior to seminal vessels
Female: descend posterior to ovary –> pass under uterine artery

Question 4

Describe the medulla, cortex and renal pyramids and associated structures within the human kidney

Answer 4

Medulla - concentrated
Cortex - nephon
Renal pyramids - loop of Henle 
Calyces
Pelvis

Question 5

Describe the renal blood supply

Answer 5

Renal artery –> segmental –> interlobar –> arcuate –> interlobular –> afferent arteriole –> glomerular capillaries –> efferent arteriole
Peritubular capillaries –> interlobular –> arcuate –> interlobar –> segmental –> renal vein