The long-range order of some bioerodable polyesteramides based on a desaminotyrosyl [Thermochim Acta 396 (2003) 141; Polym Adv Technol 13 (2002) 926: J Am Chem Soc 119 (1997) 4553] diol monomer has been investigated. The order is mesogenic, best described as a 'condis crystal' or smectic-like. In all cases where long-range order is present, ordered H bonds between amide groups are observed. The order stabilizes the polymer to dimensional change and mechanical relaxation under biorelevant conditions. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.