Chapter 24, Problem 1CYU

Roger is hit in the lower back by an errant baseball. What protects his kidneys from this mechanical trauma?

Summary Introduction

Case summary:

Roger got injured by an errant baseball which hit his lower back.

Characters in the case:

Roger

Adequate information:

Roger's lower back was injured.

To determine:

The lower body part at the back that protects kidneys from mechanical trauma.

Explanation of Solution

Kidneys are a pair of bean-shaped organs present on either side of the spine, right below the ribs behind the belly. This position is known as retro-peritoneal space. These are about 4-5 inches long and are connected to the ureters. Their major function is to purify blood and remove all the metabolic wastes out of the body. They also help in osmoregulation by maintaining the entry and exit of the electrolytes.

Lower part of the ribcage protects the kidneys from mechanical shock. Also, the adipose tissue present, known as perirenal fat capsule, also protects kidneys from mechanical injuries. This membranous sheath of fat covers the kidneys. These tissues act as shock absorbers and do not allow the injury to pass on to the kidneys.

Conclusion

Therefore, it can be concluded that perirenal fat capsules and skeletal ribcage help in protecting the kidneys from mechanical shock/injuries.