[The cubito-carpal region in gibbons].

As a continuation of our studies concerning the structure and fetal development of the human carpal articular disc (KAUER, 1968, 1975, 1976) we have investigated the disc-homologue in the Gibbon. For this purpose we have used the serial sectioned hand of a late-fetal specimen. The stratigraphical position of the os Daubentonii has been established comparing the situation in the Gibbon with that of the human ulno-carpal region. The homology presumed by others of the os Daubentonii with the cartilaginous primordium frequently found in the developing carpal articular disc in man, was found questionable. We have tried to give the os Daubentonii a functional interpretation as a sesamoid bone supporting the mechanical loaded pronation and supination of the hand in the Gibbon.