Cross-section Through the Renal Columns

Description

Cut through the kidney parenchyma reveals renal columns (columnae renales of Bertin), tongues of cortical tissue that extend inferiorly between adjacent medullary pyramids. Each column lies between the pyramidal medulla medially and the cortical labyrinth laterally, maintaining continuity with the outer renal cortex beneath the fibrous capsule. Interlobar arteries and veins course within these columns toward the corticomedullary junction, where they give rise to arcuate vessels that sweep along the bases of the pyramids. Renal columns matter because they are a common source of diagnostic confusion and a key surgical landmark. On ultrasound or contrast CT, prominent columns of Bertin can mimic a renal mass or hypertrophied parenchyma in the sinus, so recognizing the cortical attenuation and their position between pyramids helps avoid an unnecessary biopsy. Their relationship to interlobar vessels also informs partial nephrectomy planning and percutaneous access, since traversing a column rather than a calyx can reduce collecting system violation and postoperative urine leak. Normal anatomy, but clinically loud. Use this cross-sectional renal anatomy in nephrology and urology teaching when introducing corticomedullary organization, renal vascular segmentation, and the distinction between pseudotumors and solid renal neoplasms. It also supports radiology atlases, operative manuals for nephron-sparing surgery, and patient-facing graphics that explain why a suspected “mass” may be a benign renal column. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.