Mechanical differences between medial collateral ligament and lateral collateral ligament and influence of elastin degradation

• The medial collateral ligament exhibits a higher high-tension elastic modulus than the lateral collateral ligament, indicating superior elastic performance. • Elastin degradation significantly reduces the mechanical properties of both ligaments, with a more pronounced effect on the lateral collateral ligament. • The medial collateral ligament's collagen fibers are more crimped, which may contribute to its enhanced elasticity. • Repeated stretching reduces the low-tension elastic modulus of both ligaments, suggesting susceptibility to fatigue.