Pulmonary circulation is a division of the circulatory system that moves blood between the heart and the lungs. It is responsible for transporting deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs, where it is re-saturated with oxygen before being dispersed into the systemic circulation. This process involves the flow of blood from the right ventricle of the heart to the lungs through the pulmonary arteries, where it releases carbon dioxide and takes up oxygen. The oxygenated blood then returns to the heart via the pulmonary veins, entering the left atrium and subsequently being pumped into the left ventricle for distribution to the rest of the body.
Pulmonary circulation is essential for the exchange of gases across the alveolar membrane, which ultimately supplies oxygenated blood to the body and eliminates carbon dioxide from the circulation. It is a low-pressure, low-resistance system due to its parallel capillary circulation and plays a crucial role in ensuring a continuous supply of oxygenated blood to the body. Any compromise in pulmonary circulation can have serious consequences and lead to tissue dysfunction secondary to hypoxia.
In summary, pulmonary circulation is a vital component of the circulatory system, responsible for the exchange of gases and the transportation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood between the heart and the lungs.
