Ostohinnan

Ostohinnan is the term used in some Swedish medical references to denote the periosteum, the dense membrane that encloses the outer surface of bones except at joints. The periosteum consists of two layers: a tough outer fibrous layer and an inner cambial layer rich in osteogenic cells.

Functions include protection and nourishment of bone, serving as an attachment site for tendons and ligaments through Sharpey's fibers; it supplies blood vessels and nerves to the bone; the cambial layer contains progenitor cells that contribute to bone growth in thickness and fracture repair.

Distribution and development: covers most of the bone surface; absent at articular cartilage surfaces; thickness varies by bone and region; vascularization from periosteal vessels; sensitivity to pain due to innervation.

Clinical relevance: periosteal reactions on X-ray signal bone disease or healing; periostitis, osteomyelitis; surgical considerations include preserving the periosteum for grafting and healing; in orthopedic procedures, periosteal flaps may be used.

In biology and comparative anatomy, the periosteum is present in most vertebrates and exhibits variation in thickness and activity, reflecting growth rates and remodeling demands.