DefinitionInjury to the kidney and ureter is damage to these organs of the upper urinary tract.Alternative NamesKidney damage; Toxic injury of the kidney; Kidney injury; Traumatic injury of the kidney; Fractured kidney; Inflammatory injury of the kidney; Bruised kidney; Ureteral injuryCauses, incidence, and risk factorsThe kidneys are located in the flank (back of the upper abdomen at either side of the spinal column). They are deep in the abdomen and are protected by the spine, lower rib cage, and strong muscles of the back. This location protects the kidneys from many outside forces.The kidneys are well-padded for a reason -- they have a large blood supply. Injury can lead to severe bleeding.Kidneys may be injured by damage to the blood vessels that supply or drain them, including:Aneury