Anatomy And Physiology Of Cartilaginous Joints

Anatomy And Physiology Of Cartilaginous Joints

Question 1. What are the types of cartilaginous joints?
Answer.

There are two types of cartilaginous joints: primary and secondary.

• Primary cartilaginous joints (synchondroses): The bones forming these joints are united by a hyaline cartilage. They are immovable (synarthroses). After a certain age, the hyaline cartilage is slowly replaced by bone (synostosis). Examples: Joints between epiphysis and diaphysis of a growing long bone, costochondral joints, spheno-occipital joint (joint between basiocciput and basisphenoid at the base of skull) and 1st costosternal joint. These are temporary joints.
• Secondary cartilaginous joints (symphyses): These joints occur in the median plane of the body. The articular surfaces are covered by a plate of hyaline cartilage, which is then connected by a broad, flat fibrocartilaginous disc. Examples: Manubriosternal joint, pubic symphysis and intervertebral discs. These are permanent joints and do not disappear with age. A slight movement is possible (amphiarthrosis) at these joints.

Question 2. Compare and contrast the primary and secondary cartilaginous joints.
Answer.