Structure of Compact bone: The Osteonic (Haversian) System

canaliculi

Small channels that radiate through the matrix of bone

Volkmann's canals

small channels in the bone that transmit blood vessels from the periosteum into the bone (lie perpendicular to the haversian canals)

interstitial lamellae

incomplete or old lamellae

What is a lamella

layer of bone matrix where collagen fibers and mineral crystals align and run in a single direction

circumferential lamellae

layers of bone matrix that go all the way around the bone

Perforating Canals

lie at right angles to the central canals and connect the blood and nerve supply of the periosteum to that of the central canals and the marrow cavity. Also called Volkmann's canals

central canal (haversian canal)

lined with endosteum. contains its own blood vessels, which supply nutrients to the bone cells of the osteon, and its own nerve fibers

lacunae

little depression or cavity in bone and cartilage

osteocyte

mature bone cells, shaped like a spider with a body and long processes, occupies a lacuna in the bone matrix

concentric lamellae

rings (central canals) house the blood and nutrients

What is an osteon?

a tube-shaped unit in mature, compact bone. Consists of concentric layers of bone lamellae surrounding a central canal. Also called Haversian system