vasa vasorum

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Definitions from WordNet

Noun vasa vasorum has 1 sense

vasa vasorum - any small blood vessel ramifying on the outside of a major artery or vein
--₁ is a kind of blood vessel

Definitions from the Web

Vasa Vasorum

Description

Vasa vasorum is a term used in anatomy to refer to the small blood vessels that supply the walls of larger blood vessels. The term originates from Latin, where "vasa" means vessels and "vasorum" means of the vessels. These miniature blood vessels ensure the nourishment and oxygenation of the outer layers of arteries and veins.

Sense 1: Anatomy

Noun

In anatomy, vasa vasorum specifically denotes the network of small blood vessels that deliver nutrients and oxygen to the outer walls of larger arteries and veins.

Example sentence: The vasa vasorum play a crucial role in maintaining the health and integrity of blood vessels.

Sense 2: Pathology

Noun

Vasa vasorum can also refer to the abnormal growth or inflammation of these tiny vessels, which might occur in certain pathological conditions, such as atherosclerosis or vasculitis.

Example sentence: The presence of excessive vasa vasorum within the artery walls is often a sign of advanced atherosclerosis.

Sense 3: Biology

Noun

In biology, vasa vasorum can be used to describe the blood supply to the outer layers of certain organs, like the liver or heart.

Example sentence: The liver's vasa vasorum enable efficient exchange of nutrients and waste products between the blood vessels and hepatocytes.