vascular system
(VAS-kyoo-ler SIS-tem)
A large network of blood vessels and lymph vessels that moves blood and lymph throughout the body. The blood vessels carry blood between the heart and the tissues and organs in the body. They also carry oxygen and other gases, nutrients, and hormones to the tissues and help them get rid of waste products. The lymph vessels carry lymph from tissues in different parts of the body to the bloodstream through a large vein near the heart. The vascular system helps control the amount of fluid in the body and helps protect it from infection and disease.