Endochondral ossification

Last revised by Henry Knipe on 14 May 2020

Endochondral ossification describes the process of ossification from mesenchymal cells (stem cells) with a cartilaginous template and is involved in the healing process of fractures.

Bone formation occurs at ossification centers, which are either primary or secondary:

  • primary ossification centers are found in the central portion of the cartilaginous model and ossification advances towards the ends
  • secondary ossification centers are located at the epiphysis and apophysis

Gross anatomy

Seen in the formation of:

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