Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
An arteriovenous anastomosis is a direct connection between an artery and a vein, bypassing the capillary bed. This anatomical structure allows for the regulation of blood flow and temperature within tissues.
Related terms
Artery: A blood vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood away from the heart to various parts of the body.
Vein: A blood vessel that returns deoxygenated blood back towards the heart from different parts of the body.
Capillary Bed: A network of small blood vessels where exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste occurs between blood and tissues