Renal Capsule

By Shoummojit Roy on June 6, 2012 in Urinary System

Renal Capsule Definition

It refers to a thin membranous protective covering over the external surface of the left as well as the right kidney.

Renal Capsule Location

The capsule is found to surround the outer walls of the kidney. It is found to enter into the sinus, a hollow area of the kidney. It connects to the major ducts, veins, and arteries inside the sinus.

Renal Capsule Appearance

It is enclosed in a thick fatty tissue known as perinephric adipose tissue layer. It comprises of strong fibers, primarily elastin and collagen. In a healthy individual, it is mild reddish-purple in color and has a smooth, translucent surface.

The renal capsule consists of both elastic and smooth muscle fibers. Smooth muscle fibers allow for the involuntary movement of the kidney muscles and elastic fibers allow the renal tissues to contract and relax.

Renal Capsule Function

This membranous structure protects the delicate tissues of the kidney from possible damage and injuries. It also helps support the weight of the organ. It lines the wall of the sinus.

The capsule gets its blood supply from the interlobar vessels or tiny vessels that arise from the primary renal arteries.

The interlobar arteries terminate at renal capsule region after having passed through the renal cortex, an outer region of the kidneys.

The adipose tissue around the renal capsule provides cushioning effect and shock resistance to the kidneys at times of movement. As kidneys have limited space for movement, lack of proper shock absorption can result in bruising or injury to the kidneys even during the day to day activities.

Damage to the renal capsule, either due to a traumatic event or through a disease, can affect the functioning of the kidneys. If the extent of damage is large, it can severely impact the functioning and lead to a condition called renal failure.

At present, there are only two reliable treatment methods available for renal failure. One is dialysis, also known as renal replacement therapy (RRT). It is a medical procedure wherein excess fluid and waste products from the blood are removed by passing the blood through a machine. The other method is kidney transplant after getting a suitable match from a donor.