Periosteen

Periosteen is a term that refers to the periosteum, a specialized connective tissue that surrounds bones. It is a dense, fibrous membrane that plays a crucial role in bone growth, repair, and nutrition. The periosteum is composed of two layers: an outer fibrous layer and an inner cellular layer. The outer layer is rich in blood vessels and nerves, which supply nutrients to the bone and transmit sensory information. The inner layer, also known as the cambium layer, contains osteoblasts, which are cells responsible for bone formation, and osteoclasts, which are cells involved in bone resorption.

During bone growth, the periosteum contributes to the increase in bone diameter by laying down new bone on the outer surface. It is also essential for bone healing after fractures. When a bone breaks, the periosteum proliferates and forms a callus, which bridges the gap and eventually remodels into new bone. The periosteum's rich blood supply aids in delivering the necessary cells and nutrients for this repair process. Furthermore, the periosteum's sensory receptors contribute to the pain experienced with bone injuries. Due to its vital functions, understanding the periosteum is important in fields such as orthopedics and sports medicine.