The distribution of connective tissue in humans – Reconstruction and classification

ABSTRACT This study aimed to measure human connective tissue distribution and characterise material properties. We used, therefore, the existing data sets of a male and female body donor from the Visible Human Project (VHP). In the first step, collagen-containing structures were segmented and reconstructed using digital image processing. In addition, several properties were characterised and analysed using computational methods. The percentage of fibrous components within the whole body was highest in the thigh. The results of the local orientation tensors showed that individual fascicles and subtendons can be resolved when isolated but not within compact regions of connective tissues.