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segmental renal artery

Segmental renal arteries are the branches into which the renal artery divides within the kidney. The division is asymmetric between the two principal divisions of the parent vessel: the anterior division of the renal artery typically gives four segmental arteries, whereas the posterior division supplies a single one. That five-branch pattern is the basis of the segmental organisation of renal arterial supply, in which each segmental artery serves its own territory of renal parenchyma. Because the branches are described as arteries of the renal artery rather than as an anastomosing network, the segmental pattern is what makes the renal vascular territories anatomically distinct.

An artery that branches from the renal artery. The anterior division of the renal artery typically divides into four segmental arteries, whereas the posterior division of the renal artery supplies one segmental artery.

On this page
Type Vessel
Structure parente renal artery
FMA ID 70494

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a segmental renal artery?

A segmental renal artery is a branch of the main renal artery that supplies a defined segment of kidney tissue. The anterior division of the renal artery typically gives rise to four segmental arteries, while the posterior division supplies one. Each segmental artery functions as an end-artery, meaning it does not significantly anastomose with neighboring vessels within the kidney.

Where are the segmental renal arteries located?

Segmental renal arteries are located at the renal hilum and within the renal sinus. They arise from either the anterior or posterior division of the renal artery and fan out within the kidney to reach their respective segments. Their courses pass around or anterior to the renal pelvis before entering the renal parenchyma.

What is the function of the segmental renal arteries?

Segmental renal arteries are involved in distributing blood to distinct, non-overlapping portions of the kidney. Each artery supplies nephrons in its respective territory, supporting filtration, reabsorption, and secretion. Because they are end-arteries, occlusion of one does not typically allow collateral rescue from adjacent segments.

What conditions may affect the segmental renal arteries?

Conditions such as atherosclerosis, renal artery stenosis, fibromuscular dysplasia, and thromboembolic disease may be associated with stenosis or occlusion of segmental renal arteries. Traumatic injury and surgical procedures may also involve these vessels. Occlusion may be associated with segmental renal infarction.

How are the segmental renal arteries examined?

Segmental renal arteries are typically evaluated with CT angiography, MR angiography, or conventional renal arteriography. These techniques can map the number, origin, and distribution of segmental vessels, which is important information for renal surgery, transplantation planning, and the assessment of renal vascular disease.

References

  1. Foundational Model of Anatomy — FMA:70494 Reference anatomy ontology (University of Washington)
  2. UBERON — UBERON:8920004 Cross-species anatomy ontology (EMBL-EBI Ontology Lookup Service)
  3. Wikidata — Q6449769 Structured knowledge base cross-reference

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Educational Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical decisions.

Data sources: Terminologia Anatomica, Foundational Model of Anatomy, Wikidata.