Definition

By Gregory R. Waryasz, MD

The wrist joint cartilage of the musculoskeletal system is characterized by its location.

It is part of the wrist joint. It consists of cartilage.

Its unique structural feature is that it is located on the articulating surfaces of the radius, ulna, and carpal bones.  It is primarily made up of type II collagen.  The components are hydroxyproline, proteoglycans, and glycosaminoglycans arranged in layers to provide strength.

There is an articular disc that is fibrocartilaginous in the distal radioulnar joint that also articulates with the proximal carpal row.

The wrist joint cartilage as well as all other bones, muscles, and ligaments of the body are derived of mesodermal origin in the embryo.

The function of the cartilage is to provide a smooth gliding surface for joint motion by decreasing the coefficient of friction. A small layer of fluid also lubricates the articulating surfaces.

Common diseases include arthritis/degenerative joint disease (DJD), and cartilage tears.

Osteoarthritis is a condition of joint space narrowing leading to pain.

Cartilage tears can occur leading to pain and swelling.

Commonly used diagnostic procedures include clinical history, physical exam, x-ray, CT scan, and MRI.

It is usually treated with physical therapy and NSAIDs.  Arthritis and cartilage tears can also be treated with open surgery or arthroscopy..

References

Elstrom J, Virkus W, Pankovich (eds), Handbook of Fractures (3rd edition), McGraw Hill, New York, NY, 2006.

Koval K, Zuckerman J (eds), Handbook of Fractures (3rd edition), Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia, PA, 2006.

Lieberman J (ed), AAOS Comprehensive Orthopaedic Review, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2008.

Moore K, Dalley A (eds), Clinically Oriented Anatomy (5th edition), Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia, PA, 2006.