What does the term 'avascular' mean?

The term 'avascular' refers to a condition or state of tissue that does not contain blood vessels. This characteristic is important in various biological and medical contexts, particularly in understanding how certain tissues receive nutrients and oxygen. Avascular tissues rely on diffusion for their nutrient supply since they lack a direct vascular supply.

For instance, cartilage is an example of avascular tissue. It is essential for recognizing how avascular structures may respond to injury or healing, as they generally have a limited ability to regenerate due to their lack of direct blood flow. Understanding this term reinforces knowledge of tissue healing processes and the implications for treatments in fields such as permanent makeup, where understanding skin structure is vital for achieving desired outcomes.