Tensile mechanical properties of human forearm tendons. (September 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Weber, J. F.; Agur, A. M. R.; Fattah, A. Y.; Gordon, K. D.; Oliver, M. L.
• Is Part Of: Journal of hand surgery. Volume 40:Number 7(2015:Sep.)
• Page Start: 711
• Page End: 719
• Publication Date: 2015-09
• Subjects: Human forearm tendons -- tendon transfer -- mechanical properties -- cross-sectional area determination; 617.575059
• DOI: 10.1177/1753193415584715
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1753-1934

Abstract

Previous studies of the mechanical properties of tendons in the upper limb have used embalmed specimens or sub-optimal methods of measurement. The aim of this study was to determine the biomechanical properties of all tendons from five fresh frozen cadaveric forearms using updated methodology. The cross-sectional area of tendons was accurately measured using a laser reflectance system. Tensile testing was done in a precision servo-hydraulic device with cryo-clamp fixation. We determined that the cross-sectional area of some tendons is variable and directly influences the calculated material properties; visual estimation of this is unreliable. Data trends illustrate that digital extensor tendons possess the greatest tensile strength and a higher Young's modulus than other tendon types.