This is an Equipment Grant Proposal. The purpose of this research is to collect further data on the biomechanics of healing collagenous tissue. The focus is centered on the factors which affect the return in strength of ligament and tendon repairs and grafting procedures; several different types of interventions will be assessed by measuring the mechanical and histological changes in the repair or replacement of tendon material. These fundamental engineering research studies will enhance the knowledge base of the material properties of healing tissue.
