Cancellous

Cancellous (also known as trabecular or spongy bone) is one of the two types of osseous tissue that form bones. The other type is cortical bone, which is much denser and stronger. Cancellous bone is found at the ends of long bones, as well as in the pelvic bones, ribs, skull, and the vertebrae in the spinal column.

Structure

Cancellous bone is characterized by a honeycomb-like structure, composed of a network of trabeculae. These trabeculae are a few millimeters thick and provide structural support to the bone. The spaces within this network are filled with red bone marrow, which is responsible for the production of blood cells.

Function

The primary function of cancellous bone is to support and protect the red bone marrow. It also serves as a shock absorber in areas of the bone that are subjected to high levels of stress. Despite being less dense than cortical bone, cancellous bone has a higher surface area and is involved in metabolic activities such as the exchange of calcium ions.

Clinical significance

Cancellous bone is more susceptible to bone diseases such as osteoporosis. In osteoporosis, the trabeculae within the cancellous bone become thin and weak, leading to a decrease in bone density and an increased risk of fractures.

See also

• Bone marrow
• Bone remodeling
• Osteoblast
• Osteoclast
• Osteocyte