Which canal is described as running parallel to the long axis of the bone and contains blood vessels and nerves within the bone?

Which canal is described as running parallel to the long axis of the bone and contains blood vessels and nerves within the bone?

• A. Volkmann's canal
• B. Central canal
• C. Lacunae
• D. Canaliculi

Answer: (B)

In compact bone, the central canal (the Haversian canal) is the longitudinal passage that runs parallel to the bone’s long axis. It houses the blood vessels and nerves that supply the osteocytes in the surrounding lamellae, keeping the bone tissue nourished and connected. This canal is the core of each osteon, surrounded by concentric lamellae with osteocytes located in lacunae and connected by canaliculi, which distribute nutrients and signals. Perpendicular passages called Volkmann’s canals connect neighboring osteons, but they don’t run along the long axis. Therefore, the canal described is the central canal.

In compact bone, the central canal (the Haversian canal) is the longitudinal passage that runs parallel to the bone’s long axis. It houses the blood vessels and nerves that supply the osteocytes in the surrounding lamellae, keeping the bone tissue nourished and connected. This canal is the core of each osteon, surrounded by concentric lamellae with osteocytes located in lacunae and connected by canaliculi, which distribute nutrients and signals. Perpendicular passages called Volkmann’s canals connect neighboring osteons, but they don’t run along the long axis. Therefore, the canal described is the central canal.