Kapillaaritäitumine

Kapillaaritäitumine refers to the filling of capillary blood vessels. This process is crucial for delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues and removing waste products. In a healthy state, capillary filling is a dynamic process regulated by blood pressure, vessel tone, and the body's metabolic needs. When a part of the body is compressed, such as a finger pressed against a surface, the capillaries in that area may temporarily collapse or their blood flow can be reduced. Upon release of the pressure, blood rushes back into these vessels, causing them to fill again.

The rate at which capillaries refill can be an indicator of circulatory health. A common clinical test, known as capillary refill time, involves pressing on a fingernail or toenail bed for a few seconds and then observing how quickly the normal color returns after the pressure is released. In healthy individuals, capillary refill time is typically under two seconds. Prolonged refill times can suggest issues with peripheral circulation, such as dehydration, poor arterial inflow, or venous congestion. Conditions like shock, peripheral artery disease, and certain types of anemia can affect capillary filling. Understanding the mechanisms and assessment of capillary filling is important in various medical contexts, from routine physical examinations to emergency care.