Understanding the Horse's Skeletal System

Oct 5, 2024

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Lecture on H's Skeletal System

Overview

  • Comprehensive overview of the H's skeletal system.
  • Important for understanding veterinary procedures and the impact of skeletal issues.

Functions of the Skeleton

  1. Protection of Internal Organs
    • Rib cage protects heart, lungs, digestive tract, and some reproductive organs.
    • Skull protects the brain; vertebrae protect the spinal column.
  2. Storage and Release of Fat
    • Bones store and release fat.
  3. Blood Cell Production
    • Bone marrow produces blood cells.
  4. Storage and Release of Minerals
    • Stores calcium and other minerals; releases them when needed.
  5. Facilitation of Movement
    • Interaction with tendons and ligaments for movement.
  6. Support of the Body
    • Framework for the body.

Bone Types and Structure

  • Long Bones: Serve as levers (e.g., Canon bone).
  • Short Bones: Absorb concussion (e.g., carpus, Tarsus).
  • Flat Bones: Protect internal organs (e.g., skull, ribs).
  • Irregular Bones: Protect CNS (e.g., spinal column).

Bone Structure

  • Compact Bone: Solid part.
  • Cancellous (Spongy) Bone: Porous, spaces visible.
  • Periosteum: Protective membrane covering bone.
  • Metaphysis: Growth plate, closes typically by 5 years old.

Cartilage

  • Provides cushion, reduces friction/concussion.
  • Types: Hyaline, Elastic, Fibroelastic.

Ligaments, Tendons, and Synovial Membranes

  • Ligaments: Connect bones to bones.
  • Tendons: Connect muscles to bones.
  • Synovial Membranes: Provide joint lubrication.

Axial vs. Appendicular Skeleton

  • Axial: Skull, spinal column, ribs, sternum.
  • Appendicular: Limbs, pelvis.

Detailed Bone Overview

  • Axial Skeleton:

    • Skull: Protects brain and sense organs.
    • Vertebral Column: Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar, Sacral, Caudal sections.
      • Cervical: Most flexible.
      • Thoracic: Limited movement.
      • Lumbar: More movement, not attached to ribs.
      • Sacral: Fused, no movement.
      • Caudal: Tail vertebrae, variable number.

  • Appendicular Skeleton:

    • Front Leg: Scapula, humerus, radius, ulna, carpus, cannon bone, sesamoid bones, pastern bones (P1, P2, P3).
    • Hind Leg: Pelvic girdle, femur, patella, tibia, fibula, tarsus, cannon bone.

Joints of the Horse

  • Types: Cartilaginous, Fibrous, Synovial.
  • Front Leg Joints: Shoulder, elbow, carpus, fetlock, pastern, coffin.
  • Hind Leg Joints: Sacroiliac, hip, stifle, hock, fetlock, pastern, coffin.

Skeletal Development Stages

  • Various bones mature at different ages, from birth to 6 years old.

Important Points for Exams

  • Identifying sections of the vertebral column.
  • Understanding the differences in bone types and structures.
  • Knowledge of joint types and locations, especially lower leg joints.

These notes provide a comprehensive summary of the skeletal system of horses, focusing on functions, structures, and specific bones and joints. It should serve as a useful study guide for exams and practical understanding in veterinary medicine.