Chapter I./3.: Horseshoe kidney – radiological aspects

Kinga Karlinger

Introduction

Kidneys are located between the level of the 1st and 3rd lumbal vertebras. Horseshoe kidney is usually located lower than the left kidney, because of the right kidney and the liver. Renal arteries originate directly from the aorta below the origin of the mesenteric artery. The veins are located anteriorly to the arteries and behind the ureters. Renal congenital disorder can be localisated or numerical. Additional congenital disorders (urogenital, skeletal, intestinal, cardiovascular) might be often present along with the renal congenital disorders, greater part of these disorders might be also detected via different radiological tests.

The chapter structure

• I./3.1.: Renal agenesis

• I./3.2.: Accessory kidneys

• I./3.3.: Renal ectopias

  • I./3.3.1.: Classification of ectopias

  • I./3.3.2.: Longitudinal ectopia

  • I./3.3.3.: Crossed dystopia of the kidney

  • I./3.3.4.: Renal fusion (for ex. pancake kidney, horseshoe kidney)

  • I./3.3.5.: Renal malrotation

• I./3.4.: Take home messages

References