Chorionic vessels

Chorionic Vessels

Diagram of a chorionic artery

The chorionic vessels are a crucial component of the placenta, playing a vital role in the exchange of nutrients and gases between the mother and the fetus. These vessels are part of the fetal circulation and are embedded within the chorion, which is one of the membranes that surround the developing embryo.

Structure

The chorionic vessels consist of both arteries and veins. The primary vessels include the chorionic arteries and chorionic veins, which branch extensively to form a network that facilitates efficient exchange.

• Chorionic Arteries: These arteries carry deoxygenated blood from the fetus to the placenta. They branch from the umbilical arteries and spread across the chorionic plate.

• Chorionic Veins: These veins return oxygenated blood from the placenta to the fetus. They converge to form the umbilical vein, which carries the blood back to the fetal heart.

Function

The primary function of the chorionic vessels is to support the fetal circulation by ensuring the transfer of oxygen and nutrients from the maternal blood supply to the fetal blood supply. This exchange occurs in the intervillous space of the placenta, where maternal blood bathes the chorionic villi.

Development

The development of chorionic vessels begins early in embryogenesis. As the trophoblast differentiates into the cytotrophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast, the formation of the chorionic villi occurs, and the fetal blood vessels begin to develop within these structures.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities in the development or function of the chorionic vessels can lead to complications such as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or preeclampsia. Proper functioning of these vessels is essential for maintaining a healthy pregnancy and ensuring adequate fetal growth and development.

Related Pages

• Placenta
• Fetal circulation
• Umbilical cord
• Chorion
• Embryogenesis