| Hilum of kidney | |
|---|---|
 Kidney anatomy, with hilum labeled at upper left. | |
| |
| Details | |
| Identifiers | |
| Latin | hylus renale |
| TA98 | A08.1.01.004 |
| TA2 | 3361 |
| FMA | 15610 |
| Anatomical terminology | |
The renal hilum is the recessed central fissure of the kidney where its vessels, nerves and ureter (renal pedicle) pass. The medial border of the kidney is concave in the center and convex toward either extremity; it is directed forward and a little downward. Its central part presents a deep longitudinal fissure, bounded by prominent overhanging anterior and posterior lips. This fissure is a hilum that transmits the vessels, nerves, and ureter. From anterior to posterior, the renal vein exits, the renal artery enters, and the renal pelvis exits the kidney.
Contents
On the left hand side the hilum is located at the L1 vertebral level and the right kidney at level L1-2. The lower border of the kidneys is usually alongside L3.
