Fibrocartilage

Definition

Fibrocartilage is a tough, durable type of cartilage that provides support and can withstand heavy pressure. It is found in areas of the body that require both strength and elasticity, such as intervertebral discs, the pubic symphysis, and menisci in the knee. This unique cartilage contains a high density of collagen fibers, which gives it its remarkable tensile strength and makes it distinct from other types of cartilage like hyaline cartilage and elastic cartilage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fibrocartilage is highly resilient and can absorb compressive forces, making it essential in weight-bearing joints.
2. It contains a higher concentration of collagen fibers compared to hyaline cartilage, which contributes to its durability.
3. In addition to providing cushioning, fibrocartilage aids in distributing loads across joints to prevent wear and tear.
4. This type of cartilage has limited blood supply, which means it heals more slowly than other connective tissues when injured.
5. Fibrocartilage is critical in maintaining structural integrity in areas subjected to stress, such as during physical activities.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of fibrocartilage contribute to its function in load-bearing joints?
  • The structure of fibrocartilage is characterized by a dense arrangement of collagen fibers, which gives it great tensile strength and allows it to withstand heavy loads. This high collagen content enables fibrocartilage to absorb compressive forces effectively, making it ideal for locations like intervertebral discs and knee menisci that experience significant stress during movement. The combination of strength and slight flexibility helps maintain joint stability while also preventing injury.
• Compare and contrast fibrocartilage with hyaline cartilage in terms of composition and function within the body.
  • Fibrocartilage and hyaline cartilage both serve important roles in the body but differ significantly in their composition and function. Fibrocartilage contains a high density of collagen fibers, providing strength and resilience for load-bearing applications, whereas hyaline cartilage has a smoother, more gel-like matrix that provides cushioning at joints. While fibrocartilage is found in areas like the intervertebral discs where durability is needed, hyaline cartilage is present in joints to facilitate smooth movement and reduce friction.
• Evaluate the implications of limited blood supply on the healing process of fibrocartilage injuries compared to other connective tissues.
  • The limited blood supply to fibrocartilage significantly impacts its healing process, making recovery from injuries slower compared to other connective tissues like tendons or ligaments that have better vascularization. Since fibrocartilage relies on diffusion for nutrient supply and waste removal, this lack of direct blood flow means that repair mechanisms are less efficient. Consequently, injuries to structures like menisci can lead to prolonged rehabilitation periods, emphasizing the importance of injury prevention in high-stress areas where fibrocartilage is prevalent.

Related terms

collagen:

A protein that provides structure and strength to connective tissues, including fibrocartilage.

hyaline cartilage: A type of cartilage that is smooth and glass-like, serving as a cushion at joints and found in the ribcage, nose, and trachea.

meniscus: C-shaped cartilaginous structures in the knee that act as shock absorbers and help stabilize the joint.