The pubic symphysis is classified as which type of joint?
- A Synovial hinge joint
- B Primary cartilaginous joint (synchondrosis)
- C Fibrous joint (syndesmosis)
- D Secondary cartilaginous joint (symphysis) ✓
Explanation
The pubic symphysis is a secondary cartilaginous joint (symphysis) consisting of a thick fibrocartilaginous interpubic disc between the articular surfaces of the pubic bones, with no synovial cavity. A synchondrosis is a primary cartilaginous joint (e.g., growth plate) where hyaline cartilage is later replaced by bone, which does not apply here. Gray's Anatomy classifies symphyses specifically as fibrocartilaginous midline joints with limited movement.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd ed.
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