Distal phalanx [Unguicular bone, Ungual bone] - Dog - General anatomy - Left lateral view - vet-Anatomy
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Distal phalanx [Unguicular bone, Ungual bone]

Phalanx distalis [Os unguiculare, Os ungulare]

  • Synonym: Coffin bone, Pedal bone
  • Related terms: Distal phalanx [Ungual bone; Coffin bone; Pedal bone]; Distal phalanx

Definition

The distal (third) phalanx differs between species to conform to the hoof or to the claw that encloses it. They have in common an articular facet, a parietal surface and a solar surface.

In carnivores, the distal phalanx shows a hook-like appearance and is laterally compressed and drawn out to a sharp point, which is covered by the horny claw.

References

Text by Antoine Micheau, MD - Copyright IMAIOS

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