moczowodów

Moczowody, also known as ureters, are two muscular tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. Each ureter is approximately 25 to 30 centimeters long and about 5 millimeters in diameter in adults. They begin at the renal pelvis, the funnel-shaped structure that collects urine from the kidney, and extend downwards, passing through the abdominal cavity and pelvic brim before entering the posterior aspect of the urinary bladder.

The walls of the ureters are composed of three layers: an inner mucous membrane, a middle muscular layer, and an outer fibrous coat. The muscular layer is particularly important as it contains smooth muscle that contracts in waves, a process called peristalsis. This peristalsis propels urine downwards towards the bladder, even against gravity.

Urine enters the ureters from the renal pelvis and is then moved along by these rhythmic muscular contractions. The flow of urine is typically unidirectional, prevented from flowing backward into the kidneys by a valve-like mechanism where the ureters enter the bladder.

Problems with the ureters can arise, such as blockage due to kidney stones, strictures (narrowing), or tumors. These obstructions can impede urine flow, leading to pain, infection, and potential kidney damage. Medical conditions like ureteritis, inflammation of the ureter, can also occur. Diagnostic procedures like ureteroscopy allow visualization and treatment of conditions within the ureters.