On the occurrence of blood vessels in the superficial layers of articular cartilage in bovine fetuses

Abstract

The occurrence of vascular networks in the superficial layers of articular cartilage of 51 bovine fetuses (10-93 cm CRL) and 3 calves was studied grossly and histologically. The networks were found regularly on the incisura trochlearis of the ulna, on the trochlea of the radius and talus, on the plantar articular surface of the head of the talus, on the proximal articular surface of the fused central and 4th tarsal bones, and less regularly on the articular surfaces of the distal phalanx and distal sesamoid (navicular) bone and on the cochlea of the tibia. The vessels coursed in the superficial stratum of the articular cartilage and were encountered in those places where synovial fossae or villi are found later. The vessels were not present in the calves.