symphysis

Examples of symphysis in the following topics:

• Cartilaginous Joints: Symphyses

  • A symphysis is a secondary cartilaginous joint that is permanent and slightly movable.
  • The pubic symphysis or symphysis pubis is the midline cartilaginous joint (secondary cartilaginous) uniting the superior rami of the left and right pubic bones.
  • The suspensory ligament of the penis attaches to the pubic symphysis.
  • In females, the pubic symphysis is intimately close to the clitoris.
  • The external surface of the mandible is marked in the median line by a faint ridge, indicating the symphysis menti, mandibular symphysis, or line of junction.

• False and True Pelves

  • The true (or lesser) pelvis is bounded in front and below by the pubic symphysis and the superior rami of the pubis; above and behind, by the sacrum and coccyx; and laterally, by a broad, smooth, quadrangular area of bone, corresponding to the inner surfaces of the body and superior ramus of the ischium, and the part of the ilium below the arcuate line.
  • The rectum is at the back, in the curve of the sacrum and coccyx; the bladder is in front, behind the pubic symphysis.

• Pubis

  • The two pubic bones joint anteriorly through the pubic symphysis, a cartilaginous joint.
  • This tubercle, found roughly 3 cm from the pubic symphysis, is a distinctive feature on the lower part of the abdominal wall and is useful when attempting to localize the superficial inguinal ring and the femoral canal of the inguinal canal.

• Structural Classification of Joints

  • Symphyses are found between the manubrium and sternum (manubriosternal joint), intervertebral discs, and the pubic symphysis.
  • Image demonstrates a synchondrosis joint with epiphyseal plate (temporary hyaline cartilage joint) indicated (a) and a symphysis joint (b).

• Functional Classification of Joints

  • Most joints in this category include cartilaginous joints such as those found between vertebrae and the pubic symphysis.

• Perineum

  • It is generally defined as the surface region in both males and females between the pubic symphysis and the coccyx.

• Pelvic Structure and Childbearing

  • Additionally, the female pubic symphysis, which is the cartilaginous joint connecting the left and right side of the pelvis, is remodeled by hormones released during pregnancy, allowing it to stretch during childbirth.

• Episiotomy

  • It is a diamond shaped area between the symphysis pubis and the coccyx.

• Urinary Bladder Cancer

  • In males, the base of the bladder lies between the rectum and the pubic symphysis.

• Dystocia and Cesarean Section

  • Shoulder dystocia is a dystocia in which the anterior shoulder of the infant cannot pass below the pubic symphysis or requires significant manipulation to pass below it.