A hilum (formerly called a hilus) is a depression or pit at the part of an organ where structures such as blood vessels and nerves enter.

The adjective form is "hilar", and the plural is "hila".

Examples

• the hilum of the kidney (admits the renal artery, vein, ureter, and nerves)
• splenic hilum ^*
• lung hila ^*
• kidney hilum

External links

• GP Notebook

Hilum