Kollateralcirkulationsnätverk

Kollateralcirkulationsnätverk, often translated as collateral circulation, refers to the body's ability to reroute blood flow through secondary pathways when a primary blood vessel is blocked or narrowed. This network of alternative vessels is crucial for maintaining oxygen supply to tissues and organs that would otherwise be deprived of blood due to the obstruction.

The development of collateral circulation is a compensatory mechanism that can occur over time. When a vessel's lumen decreases significantly, or when a blockage occurs, the body can stimulate the growth of existing smaller vessels or the formation of new ones. These collateral vessels connect to other arterial systems, creating bypasses around the compromised area.

The effectiveness of collateral circulation varies depending on the location, the speed of onset of the blockage, and the individual's overall health. For instance, collateral pathways in the heart can significantly reduce the damage caused by a myocardial infarction (heart attack), while in the brain, they can help prevent or limit the extent of a stroke. Factors like age, chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, and smoking can impair the body's ability to develop robust collateral networks. Understanding and assessing collateral circulation is therefore important in diagnosing and managing various cardiovascular and cerebrovascular conditions.