Bones receive nutrients through a dedicated blood supply system. Here's how it works:
The primary route for nutrient delivery to bones involves nutrient arteries. According to the provided reference, these arteries deliver blood directly to the endosteal cavity, which is the inner bony surface bordering the medullary cavity. From there, the blood flows through a network of marrow sinusoids. These sinusoids facilitate the exchange of nutrients and waste products. Finally, the blood exits the bone via numerous small vessels that spread throughout the cortex, the bone's outer layer.
| Nutrient Pathway Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Nutrient Arteries | Deliver blood to the endosteal cavity. |
| 2. Marrow Sinusoids | Facilitate nutrient and waste exchange. |
| 3. Small Vessels | Blood exits through vessels in the bone cortex. |
In summary, the process by which bones receive nutrients can be described as follows:
- Arterial Entry: Nutrient arteries enter the bone, providing the initial blood supply.
- Sinusoid Distribution: Blood flows through the marrow sinusoids, allowing nutrient transfer.
- Venous Exit: The blood, now depleted of nutrients, exits through small vessels within the cortex.
