Bruskoverflatene

Bruskoverflatene are the cartilage-covered surfaces at the ends of bones where they form the articular interfaces of synovial joints. They provide a smooth, low-friction contact area that allows bones to glide past one another during movement and helps distribute mechanical load across the joint.

Anatomy and histology: Bruskoverflatene are composed mainly of hyaline cartilage. The extracellular matrix contains collagen type II and proteoglycans with a high water content, which gives elasticity and resilience. The tissue is avascular and aneural, receiving nutrients by diffusion from the synovial fluid. Cartilage is organized into zones: superficial tangential, middle radial, and deep calcified layers, separated from subchondral bone by a tidemark.

Function: The surfaces reduce friction, absorb shock, and distribute loads to underlying bone. The health of bruskoverflatene is supported by synovial fluid and boundary lubricants such as lubricin, which aid smooth articulation and minimize wear.

Clinical significance: Damage to bruskoverflatene can result from trauma or degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis. Because cartilage is largely avascular, repair capacity is limited, and injuries may lead to persistent symptoms or progression of degenerative changes. Diagnosis typically involves imaging, with MRI providing detail on cartilage integrity. Treatments range from conservative approaches (physical therapy, weight management) to surgical cartilage restoration techniques, including microfracture, osteochondral transplantation, and autologous chondrocyte implantation, depending on the defect and patient factors.

Distribution: Bruskoverflatene are found in major synovial joints, including the knee, hip, ankle, and shoulder, with regional variations in thickness and composition.

See also: Articular cartilage, Synovial joint, Osteoarthritis.