vessel caliber
The internal diameter measurement of a blood vessel, critical for assessing stenosis severity and hemodynamic significance.
Full Definition
Vessel caliber refers to the internal diameter of an artery or vein, typically measured in millimeters during imaging studies. In arterial vascular imaging, accurate caliber measurement is essential for determining the degree of stenosis, planning interventional procedures, and assessing treatment outcomes. Changes in vessel caliber can indicate disease progression, response to therapy, or the presence of vasospasm. Caliber measurements are often expressed as percentages when comparing stenotic segments to reference vessel diameters.
Usage
Usage note: Often used interchangeably with 'luminal diameter' but specifically refers to the internal measurement.
In Context
- "The vessel caliber was reduced by 70% at the site of stenosis compared to the reference segment." — Radiology report
- "Serial measurements of vessel caliber demonstrated progressive narrowing over the six-month follow-up period." — Clinical research paper