Definitions for "Microcirculation"
Refers to arterioles, capillaries and venules. Has two very important roles: controls resistance, and therefore arterial blood pressure, and exchange of nutrients, water and waste materials with active cells.
The microcirculation is the blood flow through blood vessels smaller than 100 µm (i.e. arterioles, capillaries, and venules). The main functions of the microcirculation are transporting blood cells and substances to/from the tissues, and as body coolant in thermoregulation processes. It also contributes to tissues color and stiffness.