Introduction to Osteology

Question 1

What is the skeleton?

Answer 1

It is the bony framework that supports other organs of the body.

Question 2

The skeleton is made up of:

Answer 2

Bones and teeth.

Question 3

Greek word for bone

Answer 3

Osteon.

Question 4

Functions of the skeleton

Answer 4

1. It protects vital organs (lungs, brain, heart)
2. It determines the shape of the body/conformation.
3. Acts as a reserve for inorganic elements (calcium)
4. Provides attachment sites for muscles
5. Involved in haemopoiesis.

Question 5

Haemopoiesis

Answer 5

The production of blood cells.

Question 6

Medullary cavity

Answer 6

The cavity where bone marrow is produced.

Question 7

Bones are classified based on:

Answer 7

1. Conformation

2. Location

Question 8

Bones classified based on conformation

Answer 8

1. Long bones (Ossa longa)
2. Flat bones (Ossa plana)
3. Short bones (Ossa brevia)
4. Sessamoid bones (Ossa sessamoidea)
5. Splanchnic bones

Question 9

Ossa longa

Answer 9

Tube like bones found in the limbs. They have epiphysis at both ends and a diaphysis/shaft in the middle, which contains the medullary cavity.

Question 10

Ossa plana

Answer 10

They are made up of flat, plate-like bones on either side enclosing the diploe. (eg Skull bones, ribs).

Question 11

Diploe

Answer 11

Spongy bone center of the flat bones.

Question 12

Ossa brevia

Answer 12

These are irregular, cuboidal, cylindrical, or spherical bones. They are spongy bone on the inside with a thin bony cortex. (eg vertebral column bones, carpal and tarsal bones).