minor calyx

anatomy

Also known as: minor calices, minor calyces

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Last updated

June 30, 2026

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The minor calyx is an anatomical structure within the kidney. It is a cuplike cavity that receives urine from the renal papillae, which are the apexes of the renal pyramids. Several minor calyces merge to form a major calyx, and these major calyces then empty into the renal pelvis, which is the initial reservoir for urine before it travels to the bladder via the ureter. The renal pyramids themselves are triangular sections of tissue that form the inner substance (medulla) of the kidney, primarily consisting of tubules that transport urine from the outer part of the kidney (cortex) to the calyces.12

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renal system
Internal configuration
…12 smaller cuplike cavities, the minor calyxes, into which the renal papillae project. The renal pelvis serves as the initial reservoir for urine, which flows into the sinus through the urinary collecting tubules, small tubes that open into the sinus at the papillae.
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…12 smaller cuplike cavities, the minor calyxes, into which the renal papillae project. The renal pelvis serves as the initial reservoir for urine, which flows into the sinus through the urinary collecting tubules, small tubes that open into the sinus at the papillae.
Read More