They are considered retroperitoneal, which means that they lie behind the peritoneum, the membrane lining of the abdominal cavity. The kidneys are located at the rear wall of the abdominal cavity just above the waistline and are protected by the ribcage. The upper parts of the kidneys are partially protected by lower ribs, and each whole kidney and adrenal gland are surrounded by two layers of fat (the perirenal and pararenal fat) and the renal fascia. Resting on top of each kidney is an adrenal gland (adrenal meaning on top of renal), which are involved in some renal system processes despite being a primarily endocrine organ. The kidneys: Human kidneys viewed from behind with the spine removed. The right kidney sits just below the diaphragm and posterior to the liver, the left below the diaphragm and posterior to the spleen. The asymmetry within the abdominal cavity caused by the liver typically results in the right kidney being slightly lower than the left, and left kidney being located slightly more medial than the right. Adhering to the surface of each kidney are two layers of fat to help cushion them. They are covered by the renal capsule, which is a tough capsule of fibrous connective tissue. The kidneys are a pair of bean-shaped, brown organs about the size of your fist. The kidneys are located at the rear wall of the abdominal cavity and they are protected by the ribcage.
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