Vessel
Renal segmental arteries
Branches defining relatively independent renal territories
High-yield
The usual map includes superior or apical, anterosuperior, anteroinferior, inferior and posterior territories. It is a framework for individual anatomy, not an invariant five-vessel tree.
Overview
Major renal arterial divisions distribute blood into segmental territories. The classic description recognizes five segments, although branching and boundaries vary. Limited effective collateral flow makes interruption of a segmental artery capable of causing regional ischemia.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Usually arise from anterior and posterior renal arterial divisions near the hilum, with common variations in origin and number.
- Course
- Distribute through the sinus toward interlobar branches; posterior branches commonly pass behind the pelvis.
- Branches
- Continue into interlobar, arcuate and cortical radiate arterial pathways supplying the glomerular circulation.
- Supplies
- Relatively separate parenchymal territories with limited effective arterial collateral connections.
- Drains to
- Their territories return blood through an interconnected venous network that does not reproduce rigid arterial segmentation.
Clinical correlation
Segmental occlusion can produce a wedge-shaped infarct. The relatively less vascular boundary called Brodel's plane varies in extent and still contains crossing small vessels, so its name does not imply complete absence of blood supply.
Frequently asked questions
Where do the renal segmental arteries originate?
Usually arise from anterior and posterior renal arterial divisions near the hilum, with common variations in origin and number.
What do the renal segmental arteries supply?
The renal segmental arteries supply the relatively separate parenchymal territories with limited effective arterial collateral connections.
Where do blood from the renal segmental arteries go?
Their territories return blood through an interconnected venous network that does not reproduce rigid arterial segmentation.
What are the branches of the renal segmental arteries?
Branches of the renal segmental arteries include the continue into interlobar, arcuate and cortical radiate arterial pathways supplying the glomerular circulation.