On an axial contrast-enhanced CT of the abdomen at the level of the renal hila, the right renal artery is traced from the aorta toward the right kidney. What is its relationship to the inferior vena cava along this course?
- A It passes posterior to the IVC ✓
- B It passes anterior to the IVC
- C It passes through a hiatus within the IVC
- D It runs parallel and lateral to the IVC without crossing it
Correct answer: A. It passes posterior to the IVC
Explanation
Because the IVC lies to the right of the aorta, the longer right renal artery must pass behind the IVC to reach the right hilum, and it also crosses behind the right renal vein. The left renal artery needs no such crossing since the aorta lies directly medial to the left hilum, which is why the left renal artery is shorter than the right.
Reference: Moore's Clinically Oriented Anatomy, 9th ed.
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