Variations of Renal Arteries and Veins: A Cadaveric Study with Clinical Significance

Abstract

Variations in the vascular anatomy of the kidneys are frequently encountered and hold considerable importance in surgical and radiological practice. Renal arterial anomalies are more common than venous variations and include accessory renal arteries, polar arteries, and early branching patterns. Venous anomalies commonly involve multiple renal veins and altered drainage patterns. Knowledge of these variations is essential during renal transplantation, nephrectomy, urological procedures, and interventional radiology to prevent vascular injury and postoperative complications.

During routine cadaveric dissection, several unusual variations of renal vessels were observed, including accessory renal arteries, superior polar arteries, early division of renal arteries, and multiple renal veins. The present study highlights these variations and discusses their embryological basis and clinical relevance. Awareness of such anatomical differences is crucial for accurate surgical planning and successful radiological interventions involving the kidneys.