vasa recta

arteriolae rectae renis

A group of microvessels that are part of the kidney. A vasa recta has a hairpin-like shape, entering the renal medulla as the straight arterioles and surrounds the loop of Henle, forming a capillary network. Finally it leaves the renal medulla to ascend to the cortex as the straight venules. The primary function of the vasa recta is to facilitate countercurrent exchange, which is essential for the kidney's ability to concentrate urine

Type Vessel
Parent Structure kidney vasculature
Latin Name arteriolae rectae renis
FMA ID 72006

Sub-structures

inner renal medulla vasa recta Organ outer renal medulla vasa recta Organ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the vasa recta?
A group of microvessels that are part of the kidney. A vasa recta has a hairpin-like shape, entering the renal medulla as the straight arterioles and surrounds the loop of Henle, forming a capillary network. Finally it leaves the renal medulla to ascend to the cortex as the straight venules. The pri
What is the Latin name for the vasa recta?
The Latin name for the vasa recta is arteriolae rectae renis.

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