What type of cartilage primarily composes the intervertebral discs?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option C
- The intervertebral discs are primarily composed of fibrocartilage.
- This type of cartilage is uniquely suited to withstand the significant mechanical stresses imposed on the spine, such as compression and tension.
- Unlike hyaline cartilage, which provides a smooth surface for joint movement, and elastic cartilage, which offers flexibility, fibrocartilage is dense and contains abundant collagen fibers.
- These collagen fibers provide high tensile strength and durability, allowing the intervertebral discs to function as effective shock absorbers and maintain structural integrity between vertebrae.
- Additionally, the intervertebral discs consist of two main parts: the nucleus pulposus, which is a gel-like center, and the annulus fibrosus, composed mainly of fibrocartilage.
- The annulus fibrosus's tough, fibrous composition helps contain the nucleus pulposus and resist radial expansion under pressure.
In summary, the presence of fibrocartilage in the intervertebral discs is essential for their role in providing both flexibility and strength to the spinal column.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 41st Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 6, Page 112
- This type of cartilage is uniquely suited to withstand the significant mechanical stresses imposed on the spine, such as compression and tension.
- Unlike hyaline cartilage, which provides a smooth surface for joint movement, and elastic cartilage, which offers flexibility, fibrocartilage is dense and contains abundant collagen fibers.
- These collagen fibers provide high tensile strength and durability, allowing the intervertebral discs to function as effective shock absorbers and maintain structural integrity between vertebrae.
- Additionally, the intervertebral discs consist of two main parts: the nucleus pulposus, which is a gel-like center, and the annulus fibrosus, composed mainly of fibrocartilage.
- The annulus fibrosus's tough, fibrous composition helps contain the nucleus pulposus and resist radial expansion under pressure.
In summary, the presence of fibrocartilage in the intervertebral discs is essential for their role in providing both flexibility and strength to the spinal column.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 41st Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 6, Page 112
Practice More Questions on Our App!
Download our app for free and access thousands of MCQ questions with detailed solutions