What are the own blood vessels?

Vasa vasorum (literally, "vessels of vessels") are the small blood vessels that supply the larger blood vessels with oxygen and nutrients. They are found in the adventitia, the outermost layer of the larger blood vessels.

The vasa vasorum are typically very small, with diameters of only a few micrometers. They are formed by the branching of the larger arteries that supply the blood vessel. The vasa vasorum then run along the length of the blood vessel, supplying it with oxygen and nutrients.

The vasa vasorum are important for maintaining the health of the larger blood vessels. Without an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients, the blood vessels can become damaged and diseased. This can lead to a number of serious health problems, including heart attack and stroke.

Atherosclerosis is a condition in which plaque builds up in the walls of the arteries, narrowing them and making it more difficult for blood to flow through them. Atherosclerosis is a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke.

The vasa vasorum play a role in the development of atherosclerosis. When the vasa vasorum are damaged, they are unable to supply the blood vessel with enough oxygen and nutrients. This can lead to the build-up of plaque in the arteries.

Smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are all risk factors for atherosclerosis and damage to the vasa vasorum. These conditions can damage the vasa vasorum, leading to the build-up of plaque in the arteries.