Final answer:
The region deep to the renal cortex is the renal medulla. It contains the renal pyramids and papillae, and is crucial for urine collection and transport to the calyces.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct option is B:
The region of the kidney that is deep to the renal cortex is the renal medulla. The kidney has a complex internal structure. Right beneath the outer renal cortex lies the renal medulla, which is the inner part of the kidney. The renal medulla consists of the renal pyramids and papillae, with the pyramids being separated by extensions known as renal columns. The renal papillae are where the collecting ducts transport urine to the calyces for excretion. The cortex contains all the nephrons, with some nephrons having loop of Henle which extend into the medulla, specifically the juxtamedullary nephrons. Understanding this anatomy is crucial for medical procedures involving the kidneys, such as surgery.
Regarding the surgery on the minor calyces, the surgeon would have to cut through the renal fascia, renal capsule, cortex, and finally the medulla to reach the targeted area. The renal medulla is the inner region of the kidney that contains the renal pyramids and renal papillae. It is separated from the renal cortex by the renal columns, which are connective tissue extensions that radiate downward from the cortex.