A method to estimate the initial length of equine tendons

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Orthopedic Research

Background:

• Accurate measurement of tendon mechanical properties is crucial for understanding tissue behavior and injury.
• Defining the zero strain level in load-elongation data is a common challenge in biomechanical testing.
• Existing methods may lack objectivity and reproducibility in determining the onset of loading.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an objective and reproducible procedure for determining the initial length of tendons at the onset of loading.
• To establish a reliable zero strain level for accurate tendon biomechanical analysis.
• To improve the precision of mechanical testing of biological tissues.

Main Methods:

• Fitting third-order polynomial functions to load-elongation data.
• Utilizing selective data reduction of the initial portion of the load-elongation curve.
• Implementing an iterative approach to detect the onset of loading based on polynomial fit.

Main Results:

• The developed procedure provides an objective determination of the tendon's initial length.
• The method yields a reproducible definition of the zero strain level.
• The technique effectively identifies the onset of loading in tendon mechanical testing.

Conclusions:

• The described procedure offers a robust and objective method for defining the zero strain level in tendons.
• This advancement enhances the reliability and accuracy of tendon biomechanical testing.
• The findings have implications for research in tendon injury, healing, and treatment.