Regional Anatomy

The kidneys and ureters are located behind the peritoneal cavity (Figure 1) (retroperitoneally), along the spinal column (Figure 2).

Cross-section of the Body

Illustration of the cross-section of the body
  1. Peritoneal cavity
  2. Vertebra
  3. Kidneys

Position of Ureters in Skeleton

Illustration of the position of the ureters
  1. Diaphragm
  2. 12th rib
  3. Kidneys
  4. Ureter
  5. Sacrum
  6. Bladder

Suggested Citation

SEER Training Modules: Regional Anatomy. U.S. National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute. Cited 01 January 2026. Available from: https://training.seer.cancer.gov.