Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A thoroughfare channel is a direct capillary pathway in the microcirculation system that allows blood to bypass the true capillaries or exchange vessels. This pathway plays a crucial role in regulating blood flow and pressure within tissues.
The smallest blood vessels in the body's circulatory system, designed for the exchange of water, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and many other nutrient and waste chemical substances between blood and surrounding tissues.
Microcirculation: Refers to the circulation of blood in the smallest blood vessels within organ systems, including capillaries, arterioles, and venules.