Anastomosis

Definition

Anastomosis is the connection or joining of two tubes or vessels that are normally separate, allowing fluid or blood to flow between them. In the context of heart anatomy, it typically refers to blood vessels connecting to ensure an alternative pathway for blood flow.

Related terms

Artery: A blood vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood away from the heart to the body.

Vein: A blood vessel that returns oxygen-poor blood back to the heart.

Capillary: Small, thin-walled vessels where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place between blood and tissues