Peripheral Vascular System

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the peripheral vascular system, including types of blood vessels, their structures, functions, and associated physiological processes.

Arteries

Blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart, under pressure, with thick walls containing three layers.

Veins

Blood vessels that carry blood to the heart, under low pressure, with valves and thinner walls than arteries.

Capillaries

The smallest and thinnest blood vessels where gas and nutrient exchange occurs.

Tunica interna (intima)

The innermost layer of blood vessels, made of endothelial cells.

Tunica media

The middle layer of blood vessels composed primarily of smooth muscle and elastic fibers.

Tunica externa (adventitia)

The outer layer of blood vessels that provides structural support and elasticity.

Arterioles

Small branches of arteries that deliver blood to capillaries and help regulate blood flow.

Precapillary sphincters

Muscle fibers that regulate blood flow into capillary beds.

Diffusion

The net movement of ions or molecules from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.

Filtration

The process of removing solutes as fluid flows across a porous membrane driven by hydrostatic pressure.

Reabsorption

The process of returning fluids and other substances back into circulation, driven by osmotic pressure.

Hypertension

Abnormally high blood pressure.

Hypotension

Abnormally low blood pressure.

Cardiac output

The amount of blood the heart pumps in one minute.

Erythropoietin

A hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells.

Capillary hydrostatic pressure

The pressure within capillary walls, influencing the movement of fluids.

Vascular resistance

Forces that oppose blood flow within blood vessels, including friction and vessel diameter.

Venules

Small veins that merge to form larger veins.