This updated review on the renal system provides a concise overview of the topics most important to the general surgeon. Anatomic topics have been expanded to also include variant anatomy and surgical approaches. There is a new focus on the accuracy and utility of equations for estimating the glomerular filtration rate, as well as supplementation and pharmacology for the general surgeon with discussions of vitamin D and erythropoietin. Acute kidney injury is defined; its pathophysiology is discussed; and its management is outlined, highlighting evidence-based practice. Finally, urologic surgery is addressed with a focus on donor nephrectomy and its consequences, as well as the management of iatrogenic ureteral injuries.
Key words: acute kidney injury; contrast nephropathy; erythropoiesis-stimulating agents; estimated glomerular filtration rate; iatrogenic ureteral injury; laparoscopic donor nephrectomy; renal surgical anatomy; vitamin D supplementation
X-Ray Photography of the Renal System
