From the Research
The fat anterior to the psoas below the lower pole of the left kidney is called the pararenal fat or anterior pararenal fat. This fat collection is part of the retroperitoneal fat compartments and is located within the anterior pararenal space. It lies between the posterior renal fascia (Gerota's fascia) and the posterior peritoneum. The anterior pararenal fat is clinically significant as it serves as an important anatomical landmark during surgical procedures and radiological imaging of the retroperitoneal space. It provides cushioning and support to the kidney and surrounding structures. This fat pad can become inflamed in conditions like pancreatitis, where pancreatic enzymes may leak into this space. Understanding the location of this fat is important for surgeons performing retroperitoneal approaches to the kidney or adrenal gland, as well as for radiologists interpreting abdominal imaging studies.
Key Points
- The pararenal fat is located anterior to the psoas muscle and posterior to the kidney
- It is an important anatomical landmark for surgical and radiological procedures
- The pararenal fat can become inflamed in certain conditions, such as pancreatitis
- Knowledge of the pararenal fat is essential for surgeons and radiologists working in the retroperitoneal space
Note: The provided evidence does not directly address the question, but based on general medical knowledge, the answer can be provided as above. None of the studies 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 directly relate to the anatomy of the pararenal fat, but the information is still relevant to the clinical significance of the psoas muscle and surrounding structures.