**Arcuate artery**
**Definition:**
The arcuate artery is a blood vessel that arches over the base of the renal pyramids in the kidney, playing a crucial role in renal blood circulation. It branches from the interlobar arteries and gives rise to cortical radiate arteries.
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## Arcuate Artery
The arcuate artery is an essential component of the renal vasculature. Located at the corticomedullary junction of the kidney, it forms an arch over the base of each renal pyramid. These arteries arise from the interlobar arteries, which run between the renal lobes, and subsequently branch into cortical radiate (interlobular) arteries that supply blood to the renal cortex.
### Structure and Location
Arcuate arteries are positioned at the border between the renal cortex and medulla. Their arching pattern allows for efficient distribution of blood to the nephrons, the functional units of the kidney.
### Function
The primary function of the arcuate artery is to facilitate blood flow from the larger interlobar arteries to the smaller cortical radiate arteries. This ensures adequate oxygen and nutrient delivery to the kidney tissues, supporting filtration and other renal functions.
### Clinical Significance
Understanding the arcuate artery’s anatomy is important in diagnosing and managing renal vascular diseases. Damage or obstruction in these arteries can impair kidney function and contribute to conditions such as hypertension or ischemic nephropathy.
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**Meta Description:**
The arcuate artery is a renal blood vessel arching over the renal pyramids, crucial for distributing blood within the kidney. It connects interlobar arteries to cortical radiate arteries, supporting kidney function.