QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Extension of the renal cortex into the inner renal medulla divides the renal parenchyma into triangular shapes. These are known as the renal pyramids.
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b
Renal pyramid
QuestionChoice
Several minor calyces merge to form a major calyx through which urine passes into the renal pelvis.
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d
Major calyx
QuestionChoice
This is a flat funnel-shaped structure formed from the confluence of major renal calyces. It drains urine from the calyces into the ureter, which it transports to the bladder for storage.
10014338
a
Renal pelvis
QuestionChoice
Each renal papilla is associated with a minor calyx which collects urine from the pyramids.
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c
Minor calyx
QuestionChoice
The apex of a renal pyramid is called a renal papilla.
10014342
e
Renal papilla
Concept
Chapter
## Summary

The ureters are smooth muscle tubes lined by urothelium which arise from the **renal pelvis** and travel through the abdominal and pelvic cavity before ending in two **external ureteric orifices** in the bladder. They transport urine from the kidneys to the urinary bladder.

## Structure

The ureters are lined by **transitional epithelium**, with an external lining of **longitudinal and circular muscle layers**.

## Neurovascular supply

The **abdominal ureter** is supplied by the renal, testicular/ovarian and ureteric arteries from the abdominal aorta. The **pelvic ureter** is supplied by the superior and inferior vesical arteries. The **innervation** of the ureters is derived from the renal plexus and ganglia, ureteric branches from intermesenteric plexus, pelvic splanchnic nerves and the inferior hypogastric plexuses.

## Clinical points

There are three **constrictions** of the ureter that are important to know as they have clinical relevance.

1. *Ureteropelvic junction* - where the ureter meets the pelvis of the kidneys
2. *Pelvic brim* - the edge of the pelvic inlet
3. *Where the ureter enters the bladder*

These are clinically relevant as stones are more likely to become stuck here.
3024
5007
Ureters
Topic
237
Pelvic Anatomy
15414
Picture
1999
29 - Ureters (right renal pelvis).png
images/kp94q9qg1689760693008.jpg
images/kp94q9qg1689760693008_256.jpg
images/kp94q9qg1689760693008_512.jpg
ZRgKFYLyl3iKZ4mOhMd3iQl8c8An
Topic
237
Pelvic Anatomy
Name the annotated structure.

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a