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Research Article
Sonography of chronic Achilles tendinopathy: A case–control study
Article first published online: 22 AUG 2007
DOI: 10.1002/jcu.20388
Copyright © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
1097-0096/asset/cover.gif?v=1&s=455966302377811d064e3877cbb3739b5cdefca4 "Journal of Clinical Ultrasound")
Additional Information
How to Cite
Leung, J. L.Y. and Griffith, J. F. (2008), Sonography of chronic Achilles tendinopathy: A case–control study. J. Clin. Ultrasound, 36: 27–32. doi: 10.1002/jcu.20388
Publication History
- Issue published online: 30 NOV 2007
- Article first published online: 22 AUG 2007
- Manuscript Accepted: 18 APR 2007
- Manuscript Received: 20 OCT 2006
- Abstract
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- ultrasound;
- Achilles tendon;
- tendinopathy
Abstract
Purpose
To describe the sonographic appearance of Achilles tendon in normal subjects and patients with chronic Achilles tendinopathy with the aim of establishing diagnostic sonographic criteria for Achilles tendinopathy.
Methods
A prospective, cross-sectional, case–control sonographic study of the Achilles tendon was undertaken. Thirty tendons in 21 patients and 100 tendons in 50 control subjects were selected. Sonographic assessment included tendon thickness, echogenicity, fibrillar pattern, and presence of calcifications. Power Doppler imaging was used to assess tendon vascularity. Paratendinous structures and plantar fascia were also examined.
Results
Tendinopathic tendons were larger than normal tendons in both cross-sectional area and antero-posterior diameter. Hypoechoic areas within the tendon were more commonly seen in patients. Disruption of fibrillar pattern, increase in tendon vascularity, increased Kager's fat pad echogenicity, and paratenon thickening were solely seen in patients. Fluid in the retrocalcaneal bursa and calcaneal bony abnormalities were seen in both groups without a significant difference.
Conclusion
Achilles tendinopathy results in enlargement, particularly of the mid- and distal portions of the tendon, disruption of fibrillar pattern, and increase in tendon vascularity. Additional signs are increased Kager's fat pad echogenicity and paratenon thickening. Tendon calcification, changes in retrocalcaneal bursae, and calcaneal contour are not specific for Achilles tendinopathy. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2008