Techniques for characterizing mechanical properties of soft tissues

The characterization of soft tissues remains a vital need for various bioengineering and medical fields. Developing areas such as regenerative medicine, robot-aided surgery, and surgical simulations all require accurate knowledge about the mechanical properties of soft tissues to replicate their mechanics. Mechanical properties can be characterized through several different characterization techniques such as atomic force microscopy, compression testing, and tensile testing. However, many of these methods contain considerable differences in ability to accurately characterize the mechanical properties of soft tissues. As a result of these variations, there are often discrepancies in the reported values for numerous studies. This paper reviews common characterization methods that have been applied to obtain the mechanical properties of soft tissues and highlights their advantages as well as disadvantages. The limitations, accuracies, repeatability, in-vivo testing capability, and types of properties measurable for each method are also discussed.

Automated summary

The characterization of soft tissues is crucial in bioengineering and medical fields for applications such as regenerative medicine, robot-aided surgery, and surgical simulations. Various characterization techniques, including atomic force microscopy, compression testing, and tensile testing, have been used to determine mechanical properties. However, there are discrepancies in reported values due to differences in the accuracy of these methods.