Symphysis - Lesson 51
What is symphysis meant? A form of cartilaginous joint in which union between two bones is effected by fibrocartilage without a synovial membrane. A union, meeting point, or commissure of two structures. A growing together of bones originally separate, as of the two pubic bones. A line or junction thus formed. A pathological adhesion or growing together. A symphysis is a fibrocartilaginous fusion between two bones. It is a type of cartilaginous joint. Unlike synchondroses, symphyses are permanent. The important types of symphyses are: 1. Pubic symphysis. The pubic symphysis is the midline cartilaginous joint (secondary cartilaginous) uniting the superior rami of the left and right pubic bones. It is located anterior to the urinary bladder and superior to the external genitalia; for females it is above the vulva and for males it is above the penis. In males, the suspensory ligament of the penis attaches to the pubic symphysis. In females, the pubic symphysis is intima