Modeling - Structure of A Long Bone
Modeling - Structure of A Long Bone
Diaphysis
Perioste
um
Cartilag
e
Epiphys
is
Diaphysis
The diaphysis is the long, tubular shaft of a long bone, primarily
composed of compact bone. It provides significant structural support,
enabling bones to bear weight and withstand bending and twisting
forces. The diaphysis also encloses the medullary cavity, where yellow
marrow is stored in adults.
Epiphysis
The epiphysis is the rounded end portion of a long bone, typically found
at both the proximal and distal ends. It consists mostly of spongy bone
covered by a thin layer of compact bone. The epiphysis is capped with
articular cartilage, which helps reduce friction and absorb shock at
joints, allowing for smooth movement.
Growth Plate
The growth plate, or epiphyseal plate, is a region of hyaline cartilage
located between the diaphysis and epiphysis in growing bones. It is
responsible for longitudinal bone growth during childhood and
adolescence. As the bone matures, the growth plate gradually ossifies
and closes, signaling the end of growth in length.
Compact Bone
Compact bone, also known as cortical bone, forms the dense, hard
outer layer of bone tissue. It is highly organized into structural units
called osteons, which allow it to withstand compressive forces. Compact
bone is crucial for providing strength and rigidity to bones, especially in
areas where weight-bearing is essential, like the diaphysis.
Spongy Bone
Also called cancellous bone, spongy bone has a porous, lattice-like
structure filled with marrow. Found primarily in the epiphysis and other
areas like the vertebrae and pelvis, it is lighter and less dense than
compact bone. Its trabecular network helps distribute forces and absorb
impact, while also housing red bone marrow for blood cell production.
Red Marrow
Red marrow is a type of soft, highly vascular tissue found in the spaces
of spongy bone, particularly in the epiphysis, pelvis, and sternum. It
plays a critical role in hematopoiesis, the production of blood cells
including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. In adults, red
marrow is primarily located in flat bones and the ends of long bones.
Medullary Cavity
The medullary cavity is a central, hollow space within the diaphysis of
long bones. In adults, this cavity is filled with yellow marrow, which is
involved in fat storage. During childhood, the cavity contains red
marrow, but it gradually converts to yellow marrow as the individual
matures.
Yellow Marrow
Yellow marrow is a type of bone marrow rich in adipocytes (fat cells),
found primarily in the medullary cavity of long bones. Its primary
function is the storage of fat, which serves as an energy reserve. While
it does not actively produce blood cells like red marrow, yellow marrow
can convert back to red marrow under certain conditions, such as
severe blood loss.
Periosteum
The periosteum is a fibrous, two-layered membrane that covers the
outer surface of bones, except at joints where articular cartilage is
present. The outer fibrous layer contains nerves and blood vessels that
provide nutrients to the bone, while the inner layer contains osteogenic
cells that are involved in bone growth and repair.
Cartilage
Cartilage is a flexible, smooth connective tissue found at the ends of
bones in joints (articular cartilage), in the rib cage, ear, nose, and
between vertebrae. It serves as a cushion between bones, reducing
friction and absorbing shock during movement. Unlike bone, cartilage
does not contain blood vessels, making it slower to heal after injury.