In Vivo Tension and Mechanical Properties of the Patellar Tendon in Growing Rabbits

Abstract

Changes in the morphology and mechanical properties of the patellar tendon with maturation were studied in rabbits aged 1, 2, and 6 months. The length, cross-sectional area, tensile strength, and tangent modulus of the tendon significantly increased with age. The rate of increase in the maximum load which was estimated by multiplying tensile strength by the cross-sectional area was similar to that in body weight. Tension in the patellar tendon was measured in vivo with a buckle transducer. The rate of age-related increase in the peak tension measured during normal locomotion was almost equal to that in body weight. These results indicate that the pateliar tendon responds well to increases of in vivo tension which occurs as part of the maturation process and exhibits corresponding increases in mechanical strength.