Liver vs kidneys: how they differ, in 3D
The liver is the largest internal organ, in the upper right of the abdomen under the diaphragm and covered by the ribs, while the kidneys are bean-shaped organs against the back wall of the abdomen, one on each side of the spine. The back of the liver's underside rests on the upper front of the right kidney, which is why the right kidney sits a little lower than the left. The liver processes nutrients and makes bile, and the kidneys filter the blood to make urine. The right adrenal gland sits on the upper end of the right kidney and touches the back of the underside of the liver. The underside of the liver carries a renal impression, where the right kidney rests against it.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the right kidney lower than the left?
Because the large liver sits above it. The right kidney therefore usually lies a little lower than the left kidney.
At what level are the kidneys?
Roughly between the 12th thoracic and the 3rd lumbar vertebrae, one on each side of the spine. Their upper ends are partly covered by the 11th and 12th ribs.
Which lies further back, the liver or the kidneys?
The kidneys. They are retroperitoneal organs, lying behind the peritoneum against the back wall of the abdomen. The liver is mostly wrapped in peritoneum and takes up the front and top of the abdomen.
What lies between the liver and the right kidney?
The right adrenal gland, sitting on the upper end of the right kidney, touches the back of the underside of the liver. The peritoneal space between the liver and the right kidney is called the hepatorenal recess.
What shape are the kidneys, and where do their vessels enter?
They are bean-shaped. The renal artery enters, and the renal vein and ureter leave, through the hilum, the hollow on the inner border of each kidney.
The organs compared
Parts to look at
Other organ comparisons
- Small intestine vs large intestine
- Liver vs pancreas
- Liver vs spleen
- Stomach vs pancreas
- Heart vs lungs
- Stomach vs small intestine
- Spleen vs pancreas
- Liver vs stomach
- Spleen vs kidneys
More comparisons
Read more
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- BAHI BODY 3D human body
- Chronic Disease Is Systemic Breakdown: chapter summaries
- Blog
Related reading
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