Triradiate cartilage

The triradiate cartilage is the synchondrosis uniting the ilium, ischium, and pubis during growth.

The triradiate cartilage is a Y-shaped growth plate located in the pelvis, specifically at the junction where the ilium, ischium, and pubis bones meet. This cartilage is crucial for the development of the acetabulum, the socket of the hip joint. It remains open during childhood and adolescence, allowing for the growth and proper shaping of the acetabulum.

Injuries to the triradiate cartilage, although rare, can lead to significant complications such as premature physeal closure, which can adversely affect acetabular development. This can result in a shallow acetabulum, lateralized hip joint, and increased risk of hip subluxation and degenerative changes.[1-3]

Premature closure of the triradiate cartilage can occur due to trauma, surgical interventions, or overuse injuries, and it may lead to secondary acetabular dysplasia and other hip deformities.[1][4-5] Early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to mitigate these complications and ensure proper hip joint development.