collateral circulation
Pronunciation: koh-LAT-er-al sir-kyuh-LAY-shun
Alternative blood flow pathways that develop to bypass blocked or narrowed vessels.
Full Definition
Collateral circulation refers to the network of alternative blood vessels that develop or enlarge to maintain blood flow when primary vessels become occluded or severely stenotic. This adaptive mechanism involves the recruitment of existing small vessels and the formation of new vascular channels through angiogenesis. Collateral development is influenced by factors such as the severity and chronicity of the primary vessel disease, genetic factors, and local tissue demands. The adequacy of collateral circulation determines the severity of symptoms and outcomes in patients with vascular disease, and assessment of collateral flow is important in treatment planning.
Usage
Usage note: Describe adequacy and anatomical pathways when documenting collateral findings.
In Context
- "Angiography revealed excellent collateral circulation compensating for the occluded superficial femoral artery." — catheterization report
- "The patient's minimal symptoms despite severe stenosis were attributed to well-developed collateral circulation." — clinical assessment