Fig. 2
The hierarchical structure and function of lymphatic system in skeletal muscles. a Aortas and veins can be connected to each other by a network of capillaries. From the aortas, the veins are connected sequentially by large to medium-sized arteries, small-sized arteries, arterioles, capillaries, and venules. Arterioles and venules in the skeletal muscle shown in the figure are connected by intermediate capillaries. b Lymphatic vessels in skeletal muscle are generally accompanied by arterioles. c The blind end of a lymphatic vessel (cecum) in skeletal muscle begins at the end of a venule. d Arterial blood flow increases during skeletal muscle contraction, and deformation of skeletal muscle and arteries promotes lymphatic fluid flow
