intimal hyperplasia
Pronunciation: IN-tih-mal hy-per-PLAY-zhuh
Thickening of the innermost layer of blood vessel walls, often leading to restenosis after vascular procedures.
Full Definition
Intimal hyperplasia is a pathological process characterized by the abnormal proliferation and migration of smooth muscle cells within the intimal layer of blood vessels, resulting in vessel wall thickening and luminal narrowing. This process is a common cause of restenosis following vascular interventions such as angioplasty, stenting, or bypass surgery. The condition develops as a response to vessel injury and involves complex cellular mechanisms including inflammation, platelet aggregation, and growth factor release. Understanding intimal hyperplasia is crucial for developing strategies to prevent restenosis and improve long-term patency of vascular interventions.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with atherosclerosis; emphasize the cellular proliferation aspect in documentation.
In Context
- "Histological examination confirmed extensive intimal hyperplasia as the cause of graft failure." — pathology report
- "Drug-eluting stents were designed to reduce intimal hyperplasia and prevent restenosis." — device technology review