The interpubic joint: macroscopic and microscopic

anatomy with reference to function.

Amy K. McLennan
Thesis submitted in part fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of
Science with Honours in Anatomical Sciences, 24 October 2005
THE DEPARTMENT OF ANATOMICAL SCIENCES
UNVIERSITY OF ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA

ABSTRACT
The structure of the human interpubic joint was investigated in a sample of 27 human
cadavers. Gross dissection showed that the muscles and ligaments attaching to the pelvis near
the interpubic joint were interrelated, with each other and with the fibrous outer layers of the
anterior aspect of the joint. The posterior aspect of the joint was not visibly reinforced with
fibrous tissue, and had a bulging appearance unique to each individual. Histological
exploration with a modified Massons Trichrome stain and polarised light microscopy
allowed structural regions in the joint to be identified. Fibrocartilage with features
approaching fibrous tissue was localised around the periphery of the joint, particularly
anteriorly and inferiorly. This region is more likely to deal with tensile and torsional forces
that result from bipedal locomotion (flexion and extension of the leg at the hip).
Fibrocartilage in the joint centre had features approaching hyaline cartilage. This region is
more likely to experience compressive forces in adduction. The relative proportions of these
structural areas may be regulated depending on mechanical forces through the joint. In
biomechanical testing within its functional range, the joint experienced torsion of 1 to 12
degrees in leg flexion/extension, distraction of 4 to 10 millimetres in abduction or sitting, and
compression of 3 to 8 millimetres in adduction. Increasing force was required to elicit
increased displacement at the joint, confirming its nature as an amphiarthrosis. Torsional
displacement of up to 21 degrees was achieved with a force of only 88.3N. Continued
research in this area may lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of joint pathology.