Metaphysis

Definition

The metaphysis is the region of a long bone where the shaft (diaphysis) meets the end of the bone (epiphysis). It is the site of growth plate cartilage during childhood and adolescence, allowing the bone to elongate and increase in length over time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The metaphysis is the site of the growth plate, which is responsible for the lengthening of bones during childhood and adolescence.
2. As the growth plate matures and eventually closes, the metaphysis and epiphysis fuse, forming a single, continuous bone structure.
3. The metaphysis contains a rich blood supply and is highly vascularized, supporting the rapid growth and remodeling that occurs during skeletal development.
4. Injuries to the metaphysis, such as fractures or growth plate disturbances, can disrupt normal bone growth and lead to limb length discrepancies or deformities.
5. The metaphysis is a common site for the attachment of tendons and ligaments, providing a strong connection between the bone and surrounding soft tissues.

Review Questions

• Explain the role of the metaphysis in the growth and development of long bones.
  • The metaphysis is the critical region where the growth plate cartilage is located during childhood and adolescence. This cartilage allows the bone to elongate and increase in length over time. As the growth plate matures and eventually closes, the metaphysis and epiphysis fuse, forming a single, continuous bone structure. The metaphysis is highly vascularized, supporting the rapid growth and remodeling that occurs during skeletal development.
• Describe the anatomical relationship between the metaphysis, diaphysis, and epiphysis of a long bone.
  • The metaphysis is the region where the shaft (diaphysis) of a long bone meets the end (epiphysis) of the bone. During growth and development, the metaphysis contains the growth plate cartilage that allows the bone to increase in length. The diaphysis is the central, shaft portion of the long bone, while the epiphysis is the end portion, separated from the shaft by the growth plate. As the growth plate matures and closes, the metaphysis and epiphysis fuse, forming a single, continuous bone structure.
• Analyze the clinical significance of injuries or disturbances to the metaphysis during skeletal development.
  • Injuries to the metaphysis, such as fractures or growth plate disturbances, can disrupt normal bone growth and lead to serious complications. Disruption of the growth plate can result in limb length discrepancies or deformities, as the bone is unable to elongate properly. Additionally, the metaphysis is a common site for the attachment of tendons and ligaments, so injuries in this region can also impact the surrounding soft tissues and joint function. Understanding the critical role of the metaphysis in skeletal development is essential for the proper diagnosis and management of growth-related bone and joint disorders.

Related terms

Diaphysis: The central, shaft portion of a long bone.

Epiphysis: The end portion of a long bone, separated from the shaft by the growth plate during childhood.

Growth Plate: The cartilaginous region between the epiphysis and metaphysis that allows for longitudinal bone growth.