What are venules?

Venules are small blood vessels that play a critical role in the circulatory system by returning deoxygenated blood from the capillary beds to larger veins. As the smallest branches of the venous system, venules collect blood that has delivered oxygen and nutrients to tissues and is now carrying carbon dioxide and other waste products away.

Their structure allows them to receive blood from the capillaries, which are responsible for the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste between blood and tissues. Once blood enters the venules, it is conveyed to progressively larger veins, eventually returning to the heart. Understanding the function of venules is crucial for comprehending overall blood circulation and the difference between arterial and venous systems.