AbstractIntroduction: Horseshoe kidneys are most common type congenital anomaly of excretory system. The incidence of this anomaly is approximately 1 in 400-500 adults. It is a condition in which there is fusion of both kidneys either at upper or at lower poles mostly fusion of lower poles. This knowledge will be very useful for radiological and surgical procedures. Methods: The present variation was observed during routine dissection 58 year old male cadaver in department of Anatomy of the institute. Results: Both the kidneys were placed at lower level as compared to their normal positions. The lower poles were fused to form the isthmus opposite to the L4 vertebra. As a result of this fusion the inferior pole of each kidney pointed medially. There was no extra renal anomaly such as polycystic kidney or renal cysts were observed. Weight of each kidney was approximately 200 g. While dimensions were length 100mm, width 20mm, and thickness 45mm for right kidney and 108mm, 18mm, 46mm respectively for left. Relation of structures in hilum was on right side from above downward renal vein, renal artery, renal vein and ureter. That on left side was from above downward renal vein, renal artery and pelvis; from before backward renal vein, renal artery. Conclusion: The horseshoe kidneys are usually asymptomatic. They themselves don’t require any treatment and subject can have normal life expectancy unless any complications occur. But since horseshoe kidney can not only alter imaging appearance but also render the kidneys susceptible to trauma, stone formation and transitional cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis. It becomes essential to recognise their presence.
Keywords: Horse shoe kidney; Renal anomalies; Renal artery; Renal vein.