Renal anatomy. Endourologic considerations.

The general anatomy of the kidney as applied to minimally invasive surgery is described. The kidney morphometry, the spatial planes, and the perirenal coverings are presented. The kidney's relationship with the diaphragm, ribs, pleura, liver, spleen, and colon is described in importance of intrarenal access. The intrarenal anatomy is also described, based on a large series of three-dimensional endocasts. The anatomic relationships of the intrarenal vessels (arteries and veins) with the kidney collecting system are presented and discussed with respect to intrarenal access by puncture, for endopyelotomy and for nephron-sparing operations.