How Do You Spell COLLATERAL VESSEL?

1. A collateral vessel, also known as a collateral circulation or a collateral blood vessel, is a type of blood vessel that forms an alternative route for blood flow when the main vessel is blocked or restricted. The term "collateral" refers to something that serves as a secondary or alternate option.

   In the context of the vascular system, collateral vessels can develop when there is an obstruction or narrowing of the main vessel, such as in the case of atherosclerosis or a blood clot. These vessels are not initially present but gradually form over time as a natural response to ensure continued blood supply to the affected tissues or organs.

   Collateral vessels can be found in various parts of the body and can range in size from small capillaries to larger arteries or veins. They can develop different patterns and connections, depending on the specific location and underlying conditions. The growth of collateral vessels is promoted by the release of certain signaling molecules that stimulate the formation of new blood vessels.

   The presence of collateral vessels is essential in maintaining adequate blood flow, as they provide an alternative pathway for oxygenated blood to reach the affected area, bypassing the blockage. This process helps alleviate symptoms caused by reduced blood supply and prevents ischemia, a condition characterized by inadequate blood flow to tissues or organs.

   Collateral vessels play a crucial role in the body's ability to compensate for vascular diseases or injuries, acting as a natural adaptation mechanism to ensure tissue survival and function.

2. Vas collaterale, a branch of an artery running parallel with the parent trunk.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for COLLATERAL VESSEL

The word "collateral vessel" is composed of two parts: "collateral" and "vessel".

The term "collateral" comes from the Latin word "collateralis", which is a combination of the prefix "col-" (meaning "together" or "with") and the word "latus" (meaning "side"). So, "collateral" originally referred to something that is alongside or parallel to something else.

The word "vessel" comes from the Latin word "vasculum", meaning "a container" or "a small vessel". It is derived from the older Latin word "vas", which means "a vessel" or "a dish".

When combined, "collateral vessel" refers to a blood vessel that runs parallel or alongside another blood vessel, providing an alternative pathway for blood flow in case of blockage or obstruction.

Plural form of COLLATERAL VESSEL is COLLATERAL VESSELS