Tendons Flashcards
Name the percentage of structures of tendons
80% ECM 20% cellular
What makes up the ECM in tendons
Water and type 1 and type 3 collagen
How are collagen 1 fibres arranged
in parallel bundles along the lines of force
What 2 types of cells are found in tendons
tenocytes and chondrocytes
what are tenocytes responsible for
turnover and maintenance of ECM
What is the role of collagen 1
provide tensile strength
What is the role of proteoglycans in ECM
Viscoelastic nature
Describe the stages of tendon healing
- Inflammation - inflam. cells migrate to site. Defect is rapidly filledwith granulation tissue, haemotoma and tissue. Matrix proteins are laid down for collagen synthesis
- Repair - chondrocytes and tenoblasts synthesis collagen. Initially it is collagen 3 that is synthesised. Fibroblast proliferate forming tendon cells, and collagen 1 is produced
- Remodelling - crosslinlinking between fibrils occurs, complete regernation is never achieved as defect is hypercellular and collagen fibril are now thinner
What is the function of a tendon
to act as a stretch and recoil mechanism that transmits the force generated by a muscle to the bones or joints to which it is attached
Describe an acute ruptured tendons
one time event resulting in immediate pain and decreased mobility. It is recognised and normally treated within 7 days
Describe a chronic ruptured tendon
A partial rupture that worsens or an acute rupture that goes untreated for sseveral weeks
Name some symptoms of ruptured tendons
Pain, difficult moving it, grating/crackling sensation, swelling and lump
How are ruptured tendons diagnosed
physical examination, an mri or xray to show whether the tear is partial or complete
What are some risk factors for ruptured tendons
Poor sports equipment, age, surface, tight/weak muscles, high heels and excessive training
