vasa recta

anatomy

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July 14, 2026

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The vasa recta are blood vessels that are part of the intrarenal network within the kidneys. These vessels run in close contact with the loops of Henle, which are U-shaped portions of the nephron responsible for water and sodium chloride recovery. The vasa recta originate from efferent glomerular arterioles and supply blood to the renal tubules, particularly those in the medulla. They play a role in concentrating urine, which is crucial for survival, especially in arid environments. The vasa recta also form hairpin bends, mirroring the tubules, and eventually empty into the arcuate veins.12

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renal system
Arteries and arterioles
Known as vasa recta, these vessels run toward the apexes of the pyramids in close contact with the loops of Henle. Like the tubules they make hairpin bends, retrace their path, and empty into arcuate veins that parallel the arcuate arteries.
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Known as vasa recta, these vessels run toward the apexes of the pyramids in close contact with the loops of Henle. Like the tubules they make hairpin bends, retrace their path, and empty into arcuate veins that parallel the arcuate arteries.
Read More