Haversian canal

bone anatomy

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July 23, 2026

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The Haversian canal is a crucial component of bone anatomy, specifically within compact bone. It is the central channel of an osteon, which is the main structural unit of compact bone. These canals, named after English physician Clopton Havers, house small blood vessels and nerves that supply nutrients and oxygen to the bone tissue and its cells, known as osteocytes. Osteons, with their Haversian canals, are typically several millimeters long and run parallel to the long axis of a bone, contributing to its strength and rigidity. This intricate system ensures the health and maintenance of the bone structure.123

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periosteum
… to the vessels in the haversian canals, which run the length of the bone. Fibres from the inner layer also penetrate the underlying bone, serving with the blood vessels to bind the periosteum to the bone as Sharpey fibres.
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… to the vessels in the haversian canals, which run the length of the bone. Fibres from the inner layer also penetrate the underlying bone, serving with the blood vessels to bind the periosteum to the bone as Sharpey fibres.
Read More