The correct spelling of "cancellous bone" is an important aspect of medical literature. The word "cancellous" is pronounced as /ˈkænsələs/ with stress on the first syllable. The "c" in "cancellous" makes a hard "k" sound, while the "ll" is pronounced like a single "l". The second "a" is pronounced as the schwa sound. Cancellous bone, also known as spongy or trabecular bone, is found in the inner layer of bones and provides support and flexibility to the skeletal structure.
Cancellous bone, also known as spongy bone or trabecular bone, refers to the porous and less dense type of bone tissue found primarily in the interior of bones. It is characterized by a distinctive lattice-like structure composed of interconnected bony struts, called trabeculae, with numerous open spaces in between. These spaces are filled with bone marrow, a soft tissue responsible for the production of blood cells.
Cancellous bone accounts for approximately 20% of the total bone mass in the human body and is mainly found in the ends of long bones, such as the femur and tibia, as well as in the central portion of flat bones like the sternum and pelvic bones. Its porous nature imparts a high degree of flexibility and strength to bones, allowing them to withstand forces and stress from movements and impacts.
The structure of cancellous bone also serves another crucial function, as the spaces within the trabeculae help facilitate the exchange of nutrients and waste products between cells and blood vessels. Additionally, the surface area created by the trabeculae provides attachment points for ligaments and tendons, contributing to the stability and mobility of joints.
Cancellous bone plays a significant role in maintaining overall bone health and mineral balance. It is constantly being remodeled by the activity of specialized bone cells, called osteoblasts and osteoclasts, which respectively deposit new bone tissue and remove old or damaged bone.
In summary, cancellous bone is the porous and spongy tissue located within bones, characterized by a lattice-like structure composed of trabeculae. It provides structural support, flexibility, and plays a vital role in blood cell production and bone metabolism.
The word "cancellous" originates from the Latin word "cancelli", which means lattice or grating. "Cancellous bone" refers to the spongy or porous inner tissue of bone that forms a lattice-like structure consisting of trabeculae. The term was first used in the 17th century to describe the structure and appearance of this type of bone tissue.