Glossary term
Medullary canal
The hollow inner channel of a long bone that contains bone marrow.
Updated 2026-02-242 aliases1 sourceUsed across articles and safety pages
Definition
The medullary canal is the central cavity of a long bone that contains marrow. Its diameter, length, curvature, prior hardware, and surrounding cortex influence whether an intramedullary nail can fit and which model or diameter may be considered. Fit must be assessed against current device instructions. [1]
Aliases
intramedullary canal, medullary cavity
Updated 2026-02-24
Sources
- Barakat AH et al. - Lengthening Nails for Distraction Osteogenesis: A Review of Current Practice and Presentation of Extended Indicationsacademic_journalAccessed 2026-07-12
Informational only. Not medical advice.