About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2027 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Biological Materials Science
|
| Presentation Title |
Hierarchical Finite Element Modeling of Fascicle–Interfascicular Matrix Interactions and Microdamage in the Superficial Digital Flexor Tendon |
| Author(s) |
Behzad Amirzade, Dylan C. Archer, Tanya C. Garcia-Nolen, Sushmitha S. Durgam, Ali Nassiri |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Behzad Amirzade |
| Abstract Scope |
The equine superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) and analogous human Achilles tendon endure repetitive high strains, making them useful models of tendon microdamage. The SDFT is a hierarchical, anisotropic biological material whose tensile behavior depends on interactions between collagen-rich fascicles and the elastin-rich interfascicular matrix (IFM). This study uses finite element modeling to investigate how these compartments share load, enable fascicle sliding, and accumulate microdamage during physiological extension. Fascicles and the IFM are represented as hyperelastic materials with progressive damage to capture compartment-specific deformation and failure. Preliminary results show that the IFM facilitates fascicle sliding and shear transfer at low and moderate loads but develops localized strain concentrations, microtears, and degradation near the upper physiological range. Repeated damage accumulation may reduce interfacial sliding capacity and promote tendon injury. The model links hierarchical organization, constituent behavior, and damage evolution to improve understanding and prevention of overuse injuries in energy-storing tendons. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |
| Keywords |
Biomaterials, Characterization, Computational Materials Science & Engineering |