Why is cartilage slow to heal?

• A. Cartilage is constantly being replaced by bone tissue.
• B. Cartilage is composed mainly of inorganic materials.
• C. Cartilage lacks a direct blood supply.
• D. Cartilage cells are highly active and rapidly divide.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the structure of cartilage: Cartilage is a type of connective tissue that is more flexible than bone. It is composed of chondrocytes (cartilage cells) embedded in a matrix of collagen fibers and proteoglycans.
2. Recognize the role of blood supply in tissue healing: Blood supply is crucial for delivering nutrients and oxygen to tissues, which are necessary for cell repair and regeneration.
3. Identify the characteristics of cartilage: Unlike other tissues, cartilage lacks a direct blood supply. Instead, it receives nutrients through diffusion from surrounding tissues, which is a slower process.
4. Consider the implications of limited blood supply: The absence of direct blood vessels means that cartilage has a reduced capacity to heal quickly compared to tissues with abundant blood supply.
5. Conclude why cartilage is slow to heal: Due to the lack of direct blood supply, cartilage cells receive nutrients and oxygen less efficiently, leading to slower repair and regeneration processes.