Traction tests were performed in specimens obtained from 25 human cadavers, with the purpose of comparing the mechanical properties of the patellar ligament and the calcaneus tendon. Age range of donors was 58 ± 14 years (33-85). There were 19 (76%) males and 6 (24%) females; 23 whites (92%) and 2 blacks (8%). The 10-mm central portion of the specimens was tested at a load application rate level of 30 mm/min. The cross-sectional area of the specimens was obtained so that their structural and material properties could be studied. The following variables were studied: ultimate load (N), stress (MPa), elasticity modulus (Mpa), energy (Nm), absolute (mm) and specific strain (%), yield point (N), yield point stress (MPa). Statistical analysis revealed that both the patellar ligament and the calcaneus tendon, the ultimate load, proportionality limits and ultimate stress, were similar (p>0.05). The other variables showed significant differences (p<0.05). Energy and strain values were higher in the calcaneus tendon. The elasticity modulus, significantly higher in the patellar ligament (p< 0.05) was the variable that best characterized the mechanical behavior of both materials.
Biomechanics; Patellar ligament; Achilles tendon
