Anastomosis

reconnection of two streams that previously branched out

An anastomosis is a surgical connection between two structures. It usually means a connection that is created between tubular structures, such as blood vessels or loops of intestine. For example, when part of an intestine is surgically removed, the two remaining ends are sewn or stapled together (anastomosed).

Vein skeleton of a Hydrangea leaf showing anastomoses of veins

The term is used in medicine,[1] biology, mycology, geology, and geography.[2]

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