Sünarthroosid

Sünarthroosid, also known as fibrous joints, are a type of joint in the human body where the bones are united by fibrous connective tissue. These joints are characterized by their immobility or very limited movement, providing stability and strength rather than flexibility. The type and amount of fibrous tissue present determine the degree of connection.

There are three main types of sünarthroosid. Sutures are found between the bones of the skull, where the irregular edges of the bones interlock and are held together by a short connective tissue. Syndesmoses involve bones connected by a longer ligament or interosseous membrane, allowing for slight movement. Gomphoses are peg-and-socket joints, best exemplified by the articulation of teeth within their alveolar sockets in the jaw. In gomphoses, the periodontal ligament holds the tooth in place.

The primary function of sünarthroosid is to provide strong, stable connections that protect underlying structures or anchor elements in place. For instance, sutures in the skull fuse the cranial bones together, forming a protective case for the brain. The immobility of these joints is crucial for their protective role. While most sünarthroosid are immovable in adults, some, like sutures, can undergo synostosis, where the fibrous tissue ossifies over time, resulting in complete fusion of the bones. This process contributes to the overall rigidity of the skeletal system as an individual ages.