vasa recta

noun plural

vasa rec·​ta -ˈrek-tə How to pronounce vasa recta (audio)
1
: numerous small vessels that arise from the terminal branches of arteries supplying the intestine, encircle the intestine, and divide into more branches between its layers
2
: hairpin-shaped vessels that arise from the arteriole leading away from a renal glomerulus, descend into the renal pyramids, reunite as they ascend, and play a role in the concentration of urine

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Cite this Entry

“Vasa recta.” Merriam-Webster.com Medical Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/vasa%20recta. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

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