Compact bone and haversian system

compact bone

The cylindrical structure called the osteon or the Haversian system is the basic structural and functional unit of mature compact bone Osteons run parallel to the shaft of the bone

Haversion canal

central to entire structural and functional unit, contains blood vessels and nerves that supply the bone

Concentric lamellae

layers or rings that surround the Haversion canal, consisting of connective tissue (bone salts and collagen fibers) and osteocytes

Osteocytes

mature bone cells located between adjacent concentric lamellae

Interstitial lamellae

partial lamellae that are "left-over" portions of an osteon that is undergoing reconstruction (bone is a dynamic organ)

Canaliculi

relatively small channels that connect adjacent lacunae. These communicating channels allow for metabolic interactions between osteocytes

Circumferential lamellae

rings of bone just internal to the endosteum

Perforating canals

run perpendicular to and connect the central canals, also containing blood vessels and nerves

Lacunae

spaces within the matrix of the bone where osteocytes reside