Circulatory System and Blood Vessels

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the anatomy and physiology of the circulatory system, including the structure and function of blood vessels, types of circulation, and mechanisms regulating blood pressure.

Subclavian artery

A large artery that supplies blood to the upper limb.

Brachiocephalic artery

Branches from the aortic arch and supplies blood to the right arm and head.

Aorta

The largest artery in the body, carrying oxygenated blood from the heart to the body.

Pulmonary trunk

Arises from the right ventricle and carries deoxygenated blood to the lungs.

Capillaries

Small blood vessels where exchange of substances between blood and tissues occurs.

Artery

A blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart.

Vein

A blood vessel that carries blood toward the heart.

Vasodilation

The widening of blood vessels resulting from relaxation of smooth muscle.

Vasoconstriction

The narrowing of blood vessels resulting from contraction of smooth muscle.

Histology of arteries

The study of the microscopic structure of arteries, including their three tunics: tunica externa, tunica media, and tunica intima.

Hepatic portal system

The system of veins that carry nutrient-rich blood from the digestive organs to the liver.

Edema

The abnormal accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces of tissues.

Hypertension

A condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated.

Hypotension

Abnormally low blood pressure.

Fetal circulation

Circulation of blood in a fetus that includes unique structures like the ductus arteriosus and foramen ovale.

Mean arterial pressure (MAP)

The average blood pressure in a person's arteries during one cardiac cycle.

Coronary circulation

The circulation of blood in the blood vessels that supply the heart muscle.

Portal veins

Veins that connect two capillary networks, such as the hepatic portal vein.

Anastomosis

A connection between two blood vessels allowing for alternative routes of blood flow.

Venous return

The return of blood to the heart via the veins.

Sphygmomanometer

An instrument used to measure blood pressure.

Baroreceptor reflex

A reflex mechanism that helps regulate blood pressure by altering heart rate and vessel diameter.