Collagenous microstructure of the glenoid labrum and biceps anchor

The glenoid labrum is a significant passive stabilizer of the shoulder joint. However, its microstructural form remains largely unappreciated, particularly in the context of its variety of functions. The focus of labral microscopy has often been histology and, as such, there is very little appreciat...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of anatomy 2008-06, Vol.212 (6), p.853-862
Main Authors: Hill, A. M., Hoerning, E. J., Brook, K., Smith, C. D., Moss, J., Ryder, T., Wallace, A. L., Bull, A. M. J.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Cartilage, Articular - ultrastructure
Collagen - ultrastructure
confocal microscopy
Dissection - methods
Freeze Fracturing
glenoid labrum
Humans
Joint Capsule - ultrastructure
Microscopy, Confocal
Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
Microscopy, Electron, Transmission
Middle Aged
Original
scanning electron microscopy
Shoulder Joint
transmission electron microscopy
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Summary:The glenoid labrum is a significant passive stabilizer of the shoulder joint. However, its microstructural form remains largely unappreciated, particularly in the context of its variety of functions. The focus of labral microscopy has often been histology and, as such, there is very little appreciation of collagen composition and arrangement of the labrum, and hence the micromechanics of the structure. On transmission electron microscopy, significant differences in diameter, area and perimeter were noted in the two gross histological groups of collagen fibril visualized; this suggests a heterogeneous collagenous composition with potentially distinct mechanical function. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated three distinct zones of interest: a superficial mesh, a dense circumferential braided core potentially able to accommodate hoop stresses, and a loosely packed peri‐core zone. Confocal microscopy revealed an articular surface fine fibrillar mesh potentially able to reduce surface friction, bundles of circumferential encapsulated fibres in the bulk of the tissue, and bone anchoring fibres at the osseous interface. Varying microstructure throughout the depth of the labrum suggests a role in accommodating different types of loading. An understanding of the labral microstructure can lead to development of hypotheses based upon an appreciation of this component of material property. This may aid an educated approach to surgical timing and repair.
ISSN:0021-8782
1469-7580
DOI:10.1111/j.1469-7580.2008.00904.x