vasa recta
noun plural
vasa rec·ta
| \ -ˈrek-tə
\
\
Medical Definition of vasa recta
1
: numerous small vessels that arise from the terminal branches of arteries supplying the intestine, encircle the intestine, and divide into more branches between its layers
2
: hairpin-shaped vessels that arise from the arteriole leading away from a renal glomerulus, descend into the renal pyramids, reunite as they ascend, and play a role in the concentration of urine