Uretereihin

Uretereihin, commonly known as ureters, are two muscular tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder. Each ureter is approximately 25 to 30 centimeters long in adults and about 3 to 4 millimeters in diameter. They are part of the urinary system, responsible for transporting urine from the renal pelvis of the kidney to the urinary bladder.

The walls of the ureters are composed of three layers: an inner mucous lining, a middle muscular layer, and an outer fibrous layer. The muscular layer is crucial for peristalsis, a series of wave-like muscular contractions that propel urine downwards towards the bladder, even against gravity. This process ensures a continuous flow of urine.

Urine enters the ureters through the renal pelvis, where it is filtered from the blood by the kidneys. As the bladder fills, the distal ends of the ureters are compressed, which helps to prevent the backflow of urine from the bladder into the ureters and kidneys, a condition known as vesicoureteral reflux.

Problems with the ureters can arise, such as kidney stones that can become lodged within the ureter, causing severe pain and obstruction of urine flow. Infections and strictures (narrowing of the ureter) are other potential issues that can affect ureteral function. Surgical interventions are sometimes necessary to address these conditions, including procedures to remove stones or repair damage.