Biomechanical properties of the patellar tendon in children with heritable connective tissue disorders

Purpose Hereditary connective tissue disorders (HCTDs), such as classic Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (cEDS) and Marfan syndrome (MS) share overlapping features like hypermobility and tissue fragility. In clinical practice it remains a challenge to distinguish children and adolescents with HCTD from healthy children. The purpose of this study was to investigate the biomechanical properties of the patellar tendon and joint laxity (Beighton score) in children with HCTDs ( n = 7) compared to healthy controls ( n = 14). Methods The mechanical properties of the patellar tendon were assessed using simultaneous force and ultrasonographic measurements during isometric ramp contractions. Ultrasonography was also used to measure tendon dimensions. The HCTD children were matched with 2 healthy controls with regard to age, body mass index (BMI), sex and physical activity level. Results The HCTD children had a greater degree of joint laxity ( P