Description:
The osteon, or haversian system, is the basic unit of structure in adult compact bone. It consists of a central canal surrounded by concentrically arranged lamellae and lacunae containing osteocytes. Projecting from the lacunae are canaliculi containing the arm-like processes of the osteocytes. This connected network of central canals, lacunae, and canaliculi allow nutrients to be distributed to the cells of the hard bone matrix.