MEDULLARY KEEL Meaning and
Definition
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A medullary keel refers to a prominent ridge or crest found on the internal surface of certain bones, particularly long bones in vertebrates. This anatomical feature is characterized by a longitudinal elevation running along the center or midline of the bone's medullary cavity. The medullary cavity is the central space within the shaft of a long bone that houses bone marrow and various blood vessels.
The medullary keel, also known as the intramedullary ridge or medial ridge, serves important functional purposes. It provides structural support and reinforcement to the bone, increasing its strength and stability. This ridge can distribute mechanical forces effectively throughout the bone, thereby reducing the risk of fractures or other types of bone damage.
The presence and shape of a medullary keel can vary between different species depending on their evolutionary adaptations. It is commonly more pronounced in animals that possess a strong skeletal structure or require enhanced load-bearing capabilities. For instance, avian bones often exhibit a well-developed medullary keel, particularly in flight-related bones like the sternum. The medullary keel in these cases is responsible for anchoring the powerful flight muscles involved in bird flight.
In summary, the medullary keel is an elevated ridge found within the medullary cavity of certain bones. It acts as a structural reinforcement, increasing bone strength and supporting mechanical forces. Its size and prominence depend on the species and functional requirements.
Common Misspellings for MEDULLARY KEEL
- medullary kgel
- medullary keul
- medullary keml
- medullary keal
- medullary kegl
- medullary keed
- medullary keeh
- medullary keen
- medullary keem
- m edullary keel
- me dullary keel
- med ullary keel
- medu llary keel
- medul lary keel
- medull ary keel
- medulla ry keel
- medullar y keel
- medullary k eel
- medullary ke el
- medullary kee l
Etymology of MEDULLARY KEEL
The word "medullary keel" is derived from Latin and English.
1. Medullary:
- The term "medullary" is derived from the Latin word "medulla", which means "marrow" or "pith".
- In anatomy, "medullary" refers to structures or processes related to the medulla or the inner core of certain body parts, particularly bones.
2. Keel:
- The word "keel" comes from Old English, specifically the word "cēol", which originally referred to a ship's keel or bottom structure.
- Over time, "keel" has also been used in various contexts, including the centerline ridge of a bird's breastbone (sternum).
- By extension, "keel" is used to describe any projecting ridge or structure resembling a ship's keel.
