Structure/Morphology
The renal medulla predominately consists of the renal pyramids that are separated from each other by the renal columns.
Related parts of the anatomy
Key Features/Anatomical Relations
The renal medulla is the inner portion of the kidney located deep to the renal cortex.
Function
The majority of the nephron loop (of Henle) travels through the renal medulla, which is responsible for the majority of water reabsorption, making urine hypertonic. The vasa recta (straight vessels) surround the loop of Henle aiding in the countercurrent exchange, which allows for the concentration of urine.
