Bone Histology

Types of Bone Cells

1) Osteocyte: Mature bone cell
2) Osteoblast: Bone-forming cells
3) Osteocast: Bone-destroying cells
Remember, bone is a living tissue!

Microscopic Structure of a Compact Bone

Osteon System: A central (Haversian)
canal with concentric rings (lamellae) of
bone matrix running lengthwise. Very
strong!

 Lacunae: tiny cavities inside the lamellae

rings. This is where the osteocytes are
found.

 The central canal carries blood vessels

and nerves to all areas of the bone.

So how do all bone cells get

nourishment and contact the body
outside the bone?
Canaliculi (kan ah-lik-u-li): tiny canals that
radiate outward from the central canals to
each lacunae space.
Volkmanns Canals: canals that run at
right angles to the central canals and
perforate the shaft of the bone.

Dude, what about spongy bone?

Trabeculae: Loosely organized lamellae
rings with osteocytes (no central canal).
Canaliculi connect the osteocytes.
Works like struts along lines of stress in
bone to offer strength, yet lightweight.
Grrrr!