Introductory aspects. Introduction -- Joint homeostasis -- Function and dysfunction of the joint -- The joint as an organ -- Impact of Biomechanics in a joint -- Diagnosis of an Osteochondral defect -- Mapping of an osteochondral defect -- Synovial disease -- Osteochondral unit -- Current concepts in subchondral bone pathology -- Inflammatory environment and cartilage disease -- Osteonecrosis and effects of systemic disease -- Arthritis and Rheumatological Pathologies -- Understanding Genetics in cartilage disease -- Bio-orthopaedics in Joint preservation -- Cost of disability -- Tissue engineering: Scaffolds and bio tissues -- 3D Bio-printing. Shoulder osteochondral unit function. Functional anatomy and Diagnostic -- Pathologies and Treatment . Elbow osteochondral unit function. Functional anatomy and Diagnostic -- Pathologies and Treatment .Wrist osteochondral unit function. Functional anatomy and Diagnostic -- Pathologies and Treatment. Hip osteochondral unit function. Functional anatomy and Diagnostic -- Pathologies and Treatment. Knee osteochondral unit function. Functional anatomy and Diagnostic -- Pathologies and Treatment. Ankle osteochondral unit function. Functional anatomy and Diagnostic -- Pathologies and Treatment.

This user-friendly, pragmatic book discusses the normal and pathological conditions of the appendicular skeleton, with a focus on the preservation of joint function, providing a detailed overview of strategies for both common and complex joint preservation. The first section covers basic topics, ranging from joints homeostasis and biomechanics, to genetics, bio-orthopedics, tissue engineering and 3D bioprinting. The following sections are each dedicated to a specific joint - its functional anatomy, pathologic conditions, diagnostics and treatment. This book is of interest to orthopedists and sports medicine specialists treating common and complex injuries of the joints.