Complex and unusual variation of renal vessels – embryological basis and clinical significance

Introduction Classically, a single renal artery supplies and single renal vein drains each kidney. Variations regarding the origin and number have been reported by many researchers [1–3]. Modern surgical and radiological techniques dictate a reappraisal and definition of the renal vascular anatomy. In this regard, the role of the primary tributaries of the renal vein and their relationship to the branches of the renal artery is important. The invasive interventions such as renal transplantation, interventional radiologic procedures and urologic operations require awareness of the possible variations of the renal arteries is necessary for adequate surgical management [4, 5].