njurartär

The njurartär, also known as the renal artery, is a vital blood vessel that supplies oxygenated blood to the kidneys. It branches off from the abdominal aorta, the largest artery in the body, just below the superior mesenteric artery. There are typically two renal arteries, one for each kidney, though variations can occur. Upon entering the kidney, the renal artery divides into several smaller branches, including the anterior and posterior divisions, which further subdivide to reach all parts of the renal parenchyma.

The primary function of the renal artery is to deliver blood to the kidneys for filtration. This filtration process is crucial for removing waste products and excess fluid from the blood, which are then excreted as urine. The renal artery also plays a role in regulating blood pressure through the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Blockages or narrowing of the renal artery, a condition known as renal artery stenosis, can lead to a significant reduction in blood flow to the kidney, potentially causing hypertension and kidney damage. The lumen of the renal artery is relatively narrow compared to its branching pattern within the kidney.