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Why are the kidneys described as bean-shaped organs?
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renal system
Diagram showing the location of the kidneys in the abdominal cavity and their attachment to major arteries and veins.
The kidneys are described as bean-shaped because of their distinct external morphology: they are paired organs that feature a concave border on one long side and a convex border on the opposite side.1
This characteristic shape is defined by the presence of a deep vertical cleft known as the hilus, which is situated in the middle of the medial concave border. The hilus serves as the essential point of entry and exit for the renal arteries, veins, nerves, lymphatic vessels, and the upper extension of the ureters.1