Which statement best describes laminae?

Which statement best describes laminae?

• A. They cover the external hoof wall
• B. They cushion impact
• C. They suspend the coffin bone within the hoof
• D. They are part of the digital cushion

Answer: (C)

Laminae are the crucial link that suspends the coffin bone inside the hoof. They consist of sensitive laminae on the bone surface and insensitive laminae on the hoof wall, and they interlock like Velcro to form a strong, weight-bearing bond. This interdigitating connection keeps the coffin bone properly aligned within the hoof capsule as loads are applied during movement. If the laminae are damaged, as in laminitis, the bond weakens and the coffin bone can descend or rotate, leading to serious hoof problems. The external hoof wall is simply the protective outer covering, cushioning is provided mainly by the digital cushion and frog, and laminae are not part of the digital cushion. Therefore, describing laminae as suspending the coffin bone within the hoof best captures their role.

Laminae are the crucial link that suspends the coffin bone inside the hoof. They consist of sensitive laminae on the bone surface and insensitive laminae on the hoof wall, and they interlock like Velcro to form a strong, weight-bearing bond. This interdigitating connection keeps the coffin bone properly aligned within the hoof capsule as loads are applied during movement. If the laminae are damaged, as in laminitis, the bond weakens and the coffin bone can descend or rotate, leading to serious hoof problems. The external hoof wall is simply the protective outer covering, cushioning is provided mainly by the digital cushion and frog, and laminae are not part of the digital cushion. Therefore, describing laminae as suspending the coffin bone within the hoof best captures their role.