Ciliated cell observation by SEM on the surface of human incudo-malleolar-joint articular cartilage: are they a new chondrocyte phenotype?
Background: Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) study of the human incus bone is scanty whilst, to our knowledge, no information regarding human incudo-malleolar joint articular-cartilage morphology has previously been provided.
Aims/objectives: Our aim was to shed some light on this morphological issue and to propose some theoretical perspectives on its functional role.
Material and methods: The human incudo-malleolar joint was documented with field emission SEM on samples recovered during ear surgery procedures after patients’ informed consent.