Perforating canal

Perforating Canal (also known as Volkmann's Canals) are microscopic structures found in compact bone that provide a channel for blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and nerves to reach the osteocytes within the bone. They are an essential part of the bone's vascular system, which is responsible for the delivery of nutrients and the removal of waste products.

Structure

Perforating canals are small, cylindrical channels that run perpendicular to the surface of the bone. They connect the outer surface of the bone to the Haversian canals, which run parallel to the bone's surface. The walls of the perforating canals are lined with concentric lamellae, which are layers of compact bone tissue that give the canals their cylindrical shape.

Function

The primary function of perforating canals is to provide a pathway for blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and nerves from the periosteum (the outer layer of the bone) to reach the osteocytes (the cells within the bone). This is crucial for the survival and function of the osteocytes, as they require a constant supply of nutrients and oxygen, and the removal of waste products.

In addition to providing a pathway for vessels and nerves, perforating canals also play a role in the process of bone remodeling. This is the process by which old bone tissue is broken down and replaced with new bone tissue. The blood vessels within the perforating canals deliver the necessary nutrients and oxygen for this process to occur.

Clinical Significance

Damage or blockage of the perforating canals can lead to a disruption in the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the osteocytes, which can result in bone necrosis (death of bone tissue). This can occur as a result of trauma, infection, or certain diseases such as osteoporosis or osteomyelitis.

See Also

• Compact bone
• Haversian canal
• Osteocyte
• Bone remodeling
• Bone necrosis