手関節の三角線維軟骨の微細構築に関する研究

The three-dimensional architecture of the collagenous framework of triangular fibrocartilage (TFC) of the human wrist joint was examined using polarized light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Polarized light microscopy of sagittal sections demonstrated collagen fibers consisting of many layers, while observations of horizontally sectioned samples demonstrated collagenous fibrils arranged in concentric circles. The circular center was slightly deviated to the radial side, while a coronal section demonstrated few collagenous fibrils running in that direction. Scanning electron micrographs of the carpal surface revealed a network of collagenous fibrils with collagenous fibrils oriented in one direction under this mesh. In the ulnar surface, the collagenous bundles made of over 100 fibrils formed a textile structure. The cut surface was made of collagenous fibrils running in one direction. Degenerative changes are more frequent and more intense on the ulnar surface, and the slits are frequently situated in the radial side of the TFC. The results of the fibrillar framework were discussed in relation to mechanical functions and injuries of the TFC in the wrist joint.