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Which bone protects the kidneys?

Published in Kidney Anatomy 1 min read

The ribs protect the kidneys.

Kidney Protection and the Rib Cage

The kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering waste and maintaining fluid balance in the body. Their location in the abdominal area makes them vulnerable to injury, but they are provided some protection by the skeletal structure of the rib cage. According to the provided reference, "Your kidneys are protected by your ribs." This bony shield helps to minimize the risk of damage from external forces.

Role of Ribs

The ribs serve a crucial role in protecting the kidneys, which are located in the retroperitoneal space (behind the abdominal cavity):

  • Physical Barrier: The lower ribs (specifically ribs 11 and 12, which are sometimes called "floating ribs") offer a degree of physical protection against blunt trauma to the kidneys.
  • Partial Coverage: While the ribs don't completely encase the kidneys, they cover the upper portions, providing significant protection.

Kidney Functions

Besides the protective aspects, it's important to understand the primary function of the kidneys:

  • Waste Removal: Kidneys filter waste products from the blood.
  • Fluid Balance: Kidneys regulate the body's fluid levels.