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.

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.

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.

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.

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.