collateral circulation

American  

noun

1. circulation of blood through a network of minor vessels that become enlarged and joined with adjacent vessels when a major vein or artery is impaired, as by obstruction.

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Etymology

Origin of collateral circulation

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

The only blood flow to his arm was coming from collateral circulation, from minor blood vessels and capillaries in the skin.

From Time Magazine Archive

At the same time, the heart is developing collateral circulation.

From Time Magazine Archive

If it constricts slowly for months, the heart brings into play its self-repair system and develops collateral circulation, i.e., nearby branches enlarge to carry more blood to neighboring parts of the heart muscle.

From Time Magazine Archive

In cases like the President's, the collateral circulation has to develop after the attack.

From Time Magazine Archive

There may even be a possibility of the absorption of the clot, or that an increase of the collateral circulation may be sufficient to supply the parts with blood.

From Special Report on Diseases of the Horse by Michener, Charles B.