Cells and Bone Repair

Cells and Bone Repair

• Cells and Bone Repair Name and describe the three cells that are part of the skeletal system.  ,
• Describe the four steps associated with bone repair studied in the chapter for this week.  ,
• Define the terms: compact bone spongy bone osteocytes cartilage ligaments periosteum joints and tendons.APA.

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Cells of the Skeletal System

The skeletal system comprises several specialized cells, three of which are critical for bone health and maintenance:

1. Osteoblasts: These are bone-forming cells responsible for synthesizing and mineralizing bone during both initial formation and later growth. Osteoblasts secrete the bone matrix, which includes collagen and other proteins, and play a vital role in the process of ossification.
2. Osteocytes: Once osteoblasts become embedded in the bone matrix they produce, they differentiate into osteocytes. These mature bone cells maintain the bone tissue and are responsible for regulating bone density by communicating with other bone cells. They help manage the exchange of nutrients and waste with the bone surface through tiny channels known as canaliculi.
3. Osteoclasts: These large cells are involved in bone resorption, breaking down bone tissue to release minerals back into the bloodstream. Osteoclasts are essential for the remodeling of bones, allowing for the maintenance of bone strength and integrity, especially in response to stress and injury.
   

   Cells and Bone Repair

Steps of Bone Repair

Bone repair involves a systematic process divided into four key steps:

1. Hematoma Formation: Immediately following a fracture, blood vessels break, leading to the formation of a hematoma (a blood clot) at the fracture site. This helps stabilize the fracture and serves as a foundation for healing.
2. Fibrocartilaginous Callus Formation: In this step, fibroblasts and chondroblasts migrate to the area and produce a soft callus made of collagen and cartilage. This callus bridges the gap between the broken bone ends.
3. Bony Callus Formation: Osteoblasts replace the fibrocartilaginous callus with a bony callus through ossification, turning the soft callus into hard bone. This process can take several weeks to months.
4. Bone Remodeling: The final step involves the continuous remodeling of bone tissue. The bony callus is reshaped and refined into its original form through the activity of osteoclasts and osteoblasts, restoring the bone’s strength and structure.
   

   Cells and Bone Repair

Definitions

• Compact Bone: Dense and forms the outer layer of bones, providing strength and support.
• Spongy Bone: Lighter and less dense than compact bone, found at the ends of long bones and in the interiors of others, containing marrow spaces.
• Osteocytes: Mature bone cells that maintain the bone matrix and communicate with other cells.
• Cartilage: A flexible connective tissue found in joints, ear, nose, and rib cage, providing cushioning and support.
• Ligaments: Consequently, strong bands of connective tissue that connect bones to other bones at joints, providing stability.
• Periosteum: Whereas, a dense layer of vascular connective tissue enveloping the bones, serving as a point of attachment for tendons and ligaments.
• Joints: Hwence, areas where two or more bones meet, allowing for movement and flexibility.
• Tendons: Therefore, connective tissues that attach muscle to bone, facilitating movement when muscles contract.