Connective tissue supports, connects or separates other tissues through cells embedded in extracellular matrix. Its forms include loose supporting tissue, tendons, cartilage and bone. Variation in matrix composition and organization explains their very different mechanical behavior.
An elastic fibre is an extracellular structural element that stretches and recoils. Networks of these fibers contribute reversible deformation to tissues such as vessel walls. Their recoil role differs from the high tensile restraint supplied by many collagen-rich structures.
A sheet-like elastic component of a vessel wall, especially prominent in the tunica media of elastic arteries.
Fascia is connective tissue forming sheets, envelopes or partitions around and between anatomical structures. It organizes movement, force transmission and pathways for vessels and nerves. Naming a fascial plane identifies a spatial relationship rather than an empty gap between unrelated organs.
The membranous component of superficial perineal fascia.
The periosteum is the connective-tissue covering of the external bone surface except at appropriate articular regions. It supports vascular supply, attachment and growth or repair processes. It is distinct from the inner marrow cavity and the cartilage on joint surfaces.
A tendon is dense connective tissue transmitting force from muscle to an attachment, commonly a bone. Parallel organization of its matrix supports tensile loading. Elasticity and geometry affect force transmission, so a tendon is not an absolutely rigid connector.
The popliteus tendon connects the popliteus muscle to its femoral attachment and has close relations to the lateral knee structures. Its course helps explain the muscle’s role in controlling rotation near the extended knee. Tendon continuity and joint-cavity relations are separate anatomical questions.
The quadriceps tendon transmits force from the quadriceps femoris to the patella. The distal patellar ligament continues the chain to the tibia. This arrangement lets the patella alter the leverage of the knee-extension apparatus.
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