What is cartilage?
It is called the cartilage. Gray's Anatomy (1918) describes it as a firm but flexible connective tissue.
What it is
- A firm but flexible connective tissue.
- Three main types: hyaline (in joint surfaces), fibrocartilage (in the intervertebral discs and menisci), and elastic (in the ear and epiglottis).
- Cushions joints and gives shape to some structures.
Where it is
- Covers the surfaces of bones inside joints.
- Forms parts of the airway, ear, and nose.
- Between the vertebrae as intervertebral discs.
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Last verified: 2026-07-18
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