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