Endochondral

Endochondral ossification is a process in which bone tissue is created. It is one of the two methods of bone development and growth in humans and animals. The other method, intramembranous ossification, involves the direct conversion of mesenchymal tissue into bone. Endochondral ossification, on the other hand, involves the replacement of hyaline cartilage with bone.

Process

Endochondral ossification begins with points in the cartilage called "primary ossification centers." They are responsible for the formation of the diaphyses of long bones, short bones, and certain parts of irregular bones. Secondary ossification centers, which develop later, are responsible for the formation of the epiphyses of long bones and the extremities of irregular and flat bones.

The process of endochondral ossification is characterized by the calcification of cartilage, invasion of blood vessels from the periosteum, and the formation of a primary ossification center. This is followed by the formation of a marrow cavity, the development of secondary ossification centers, and the formation of articular cartilage and the epiphyseal plate.

Role in Human Development

Endochondral ossification plays a crucial role in the prenatal and postnatal development of the skeleton. It is also involved in the natural healing of bone fractures and the pathological calcification of soft tissues.

See Also

• Ossification
• Bone
• Cartilage
• Periosteum
• Epiphyseal plate

References

Endochondral Resources
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