Word parts
What it means
Describes the arteries, veins and capillaries, or tissue that has many of them. Phrases include peripheral vascular disease (narrowed vessels in the legs or arms), vascular access (a way into a vein, such as an IV line or a dialysis fistula) and a vascular surgeon. A tissue with a good blood supply is called highly vascular.
For the nurse
A vascular check of a limb means pulses, color, warmth, capillary refill, feeling and movement, compared with the other side.
At a glance
| Spanish | vascular |
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Related terms
perfusion
The flow of blood through the body's tissues, bringing them oxygen and nutrients.
capillary
One of the tiniest blood vessels, joining the smallest arteries to the smallest veins.
vein
A blood vessel that carries blood back toward the heart.
artery
A blood vessel that takes blood from the heart out to the body.
cardiovascular
Relating to the heart and blood vessels.