Surgery>>>>>Wound Healing
Question 14#

What is FALSE regarding healing of cartilage?

A. Cartilage is avascular and depends on diffusion of nutrients
B. Superficial cartilage wounds are not associated with an inflammatory response
C. Cartilage injuries often heal slowly and result in permanent structural defects
D. A major source of nutrients to cartilage is from nearby periosteum

Correct Answer is D

Comment:

Cartilage consists of cells (chondrocytes) surrounded by an extracellular matrix made up of several proteoglycans, collagen fibers, and water. Unlike bone, cartilage is very avascular and depends on diffusion for transmittal of nutrients across the matrix. Additionally, the hypervascular perichondrium contributes substantially to the nutrition of the cartilage. Therefore, injuries to cartilage may be associated with permanent defects due to the meager and tenuous blood supply. The healing response of cartilage depends on the depth of injury. In a superficial injury, there is disruption of the pro-teoglycan matrix and injury to the chondrocytes. There is no inflammatory response, but an increase in synthesis of pro-teoglycan and collagen dependent entirely on the chondrocyte. Unfortunately, the healing power of cartilage is often inadequate and overall regeneration is incomplete. Therefore, superficial cartilage injuries are slow to heal and often result in persistent structural defects.