The condylar cartilage of the mandible is classified as secondary cartilage because it develops postnatally on a membrane bone (mandible) and contributes to the growth of the mandibular condyle. Unlike primary cartilage, which forms the initial skeleton through endochondral ossification, secondary cartilage arises in response to mechanical stimuli and functions as a growth center for remodeling the bone surface. This distinction is crucial in surgical interventions involving the mandibular condyle, such as orthognathic surgery or trauma repair, where understanding its growth potential and regenerative capacity impacts outcome and stability. Preservation or careful manipulation of this cartilage can influence postoperative mandibular growth and function.

Reference: Gray’s Anatomy, 42nd Edition.