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Endochondral bone formation
Endochondral bone formation is the process where cartilage is replaced by bone. It occurs in long bones, vertebrae, ribs and other bones. First, mesenchymal cells form a cartilaginous model surrounded by perichondrium. The model grows in size through the division and maturation of chondrocytes. Osteoblasts then deposit bone collagen on the calcified cartilage, forming mixed bone-cartilage spicules. Meanwhile, blood vessels invade the midsection and form a primary ossification center, with marrow cavity developing within. Later, secondary ossification centers form in the epiphyses, completing bone growth.
