collateral circulation
Pronunciation: koh-LAT-er-al sur-kyuh-LAY-shun
Alternative blood flow pathways that develop to bypass blocked or narrowed coronary arteries.
Full Definition
Collateral circulation refers to the network of small blood vessels that develop to provide alternative routes for blood flow when major coronary arteries are severely narrowed or blocked. These collateral vessels can be pre-existing dormant vessels that enlarge or entirely new vessels that form through angiogenesis. The development of robust collateral circulation can protect the myocardium from ischemia and may influence clinical outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease. Assessment of collateral flow is important for risk stratification and treatment planning in patients with chronic coronary syndromes.
In Context
- "Despite complete occlusion of the right coronary artery, robust collateral circulation maintained viability of the inferior wall." — Cardiac catheterization interpretation
- "The presence of well-developed collateral circulation influenced the decision for medical management over intervention." — Treatment planning discussion