The kidneys are a pair of bean-shaped organs located in the posterior (back) part of the abdominal cavity. They lie on either side of the spine, typically extending from the level of the 12th thoracic vertebra (T12) down to the 3rd lumbar vertebra (L3). The right kidney is usually positioned slightly lower than the left due to the presence of the liver
. They are situated just below the ribcage, behind the belly, and between the intestines and diaphragm. The kidneys reside in the retroperitoneal space, meaning they lie behind the peritoneum, the membrane lining the abdominal cavity
. Each kidney is partially protected by the lower ribs and cushioned by two layers of fat (perirenal and pararenal fat) and the renal fascia. The adrenal glands rest on top of each kidney
. In summary, the kidneys are located:
- On the posterior abdominal wall, one on each side of the spine
- Between vertebrae T12 and L3
- Behind the peritoneum (retroperitoneal)
- Just below the ribcage, protected partially by ribs
- The right kidney is slightly lower than the left due to the liver's position
