Phalanx distalis [Os unguiculare, Os ungulare] - Dog - General anatomy - Left lateral view - vet-Anatomy
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Phalanx distalis [Os unguiculare, Os ungulare]

Phalanx distalis [Os unguiculare, Os ungulare]

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

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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