Learning Objectives

• Compare and contrast arteries, capillaries and veins
• Describe the histology of each type of vessel, including a description of the function of each layer
• Describe the physiology of capillary beds
• Define the net filtration pressure of a capillary bed, and describe how to calculate net filtration pressure
• Based on net filtration pressure, be able to judge the net flow of fluid in or out of a capillary bed
• Explain how oedema occurs, and under what pathological conditions oedema is likely to be observed in your patients

Blood Vessel Anatomy

• structural features of the tunica externa?
• structural features of the tunica media?
• structural features of the tunica intima?
• histological features of an artery vs vein?
• what are anastomoses?

Vascular Tone

• what is vascular tone?
• what 3 factors regulate vascular tone?
• what happens if blood vessels lose nervous input?
• what happens to arteries during a sympathetic surge?

Arterial System