How Does Appositional Growth Occur?

Appositional growth is the second type of growth which increases the bone width or diameter. This growth occurs as a result of depositing new bone tissue on the endosteal

and periosteal surfaces. Therefore, new layers are formed on the surface of pre-existing bones, increasing the thickness of the bone.

Where does Appositional growth occur?

Appositional growth can occur at the endosteum or peristeum where osteoclasts resorb old bone that lines the medullary cavity, while osteoblasts produce new bone tissue.

What happens during Appositional growth?

Appositional growth is the increase in the diameter of bones by the addition of bony tissue at the surface of bones. Osteoblasts at the bone surface secrete bone matrix, and osteoclasts on the inner surface break down bone. The osteoblasts differentiate into osteocytes.