1. Basic Science of Bone and Cartilage Metabolism

Bone is a biphasic connective tissue consisting of an inorganic mineral phase and an organic matrix phase. The hardness of bone allows it to provide several specialized mechanical functions: the protection of internal organs, the scaffold providing points of attachment for other structural elements, and the levers needed to improve the efficiency of muscle action. In addition, bone serves two biologic functions: a site for hematopoietic activity and a reservoir of minerals needed for metabolic interchange.