What proportion of the humeral head sphere is made up of humeral articular cartilage?

The humeral head sphere is an essential component of the shoulder anatomy, and understanding its structure helps clarify the role of articular cartilage in joint function. The humeral articular cartilage covers the surface of the humeral head, providing a smooth and lubricated surface for the articulation with the glenoid cavity of the scapula.

Research and anatomical studies have shown that approximately one-third of the overall volume of the humeral head sphere is composed of this articular cartilage. This proportion is significant as it highlights the importance of cartilage in maintaining joint health and function, which is particularly relevant in the context of total shoulder arthroplasty.

By recognizing that one-third of the humeral head comprises cartilage, it's clear that this structure plays a crucial role in load distribution and minimizing friction within the shoulder joint, essentially impacting treatment approaches during procedures like TSA. This anatomical knowledge is vital for understanding the implications of degeneration or injury to the shoulder joint and informs surgical decisions regarding the preservation or replacement of cartilage during arthroplasty.