The major calyces are the two or three wider channels formed by the union of several minor calyces. They usually drain the upper, middle and lower parts of the kidney. They join together to form the renal pelvis.
| Location | Within the renal sinus, between the minor calyces and the renal pelvis |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Renal plexus |
| Blood Supply | Segmental branches of the renal artery |
| Venous drainage |
|
| Lymphatic drainage |
|
Channel urine from the minor calyces into the renal pelvis.
The arrangement of the major calyces matters in kidney stone surgery, when the surgeon chooses a calyx to puncture for percutaneous access. Obstruction downstream, for example at the pelviureteric junction, balloons the calyces (hydronephrosis), which is seen easily on ultrasound.
Swelling of the calyces and pelvis from blocked urine flow, caused by stones, strictures, tumours or reflux.
A large branching stone that fills the renal pelvis and extends into the calyces, usually linked with urease-producing infections.
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