vascularizado

Vascularizado refers to tissues or organs that possess an internal network of blood vessels capable of delivering oxygen and nutrients. In biology, most organs are vascularized; some tissues remain avascular, relying on diffusion from surrounding fluids, such as cartilage, the cornea, and the lens.

Vascularization arises during development and continues through processes such as angiogenesis (the growth of new vessels from existing ones) and vasculogenesis (the formation of vessels from endothelial progenitor cells). Under normal conditions, angiogenesis and remodeling establish a functional capillary network; in disease, abnormal vascularization can occur, as seen in certain tumors and inflammatory states.

In medical practice, vascularized tissue transfer is a common reconstructive technique in which tissue grafts are transplanted with their native blood supply, then anastomosed to recipient vessels to ensure graft survival. Examples include free flaps, perforator flaps, and vascularized bone or muscle grafts. By contrast, non-vascularized grafts rely on ingrowth of vessels from surrounding tissue and carry a higher risk of necrosis in the early postoperative period.

In research and diagnostics, assessing vascularization is important for understanding tumor biology, planning tissue-engineering strategies, and evaluating graft viability. Imaging modalities such as Doppler ultrasound, CT or MR angiography, and perfusion studies help quantify blood supply and vessel function.

In tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, achieving rapid and stable vascularization of implanted constructs is a major challenge. Strategies include scaffold design that promotes vessel ingrowth, incorporation of angiogenic factors, and pre-vascularization with microvascular networks to support integration and survival after implantation.