How Useful Is Elastography in the Follow-Up of Achilles Tendon Repair?

Abstract

Introduction: In addition to conservative modalities in the treatment of Achilles tendon injuries, open, percutaneous and minimally invasive semi-open techniques, as well as biological open surgical repair methods are used as surgical options. Compression elastography is one of the methods used for the follow-up of treatment in Achilles tendon injuries. Methods: 23 patients were included in our study between July 2013 and June 2014, as long as they had at least 4 years of follow-up. In the final control, the intact side and the operated side were both examined and compared. The variables were the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS) which is measured as a functional score considering plantar flexion and dorsiflexion; calf circumference; Achilles tendon anteroposterior (AP) diameter; and elastographic examination. Results: The strain ratio value and AP diameter of the patients was significantly higher on the operated side than on the non-operated side (p <0.001). There was no significant difference between the plantar flexion and dorsiflexion degrees on the operated side of the patients(p> 0.05). No correlation was observed between strain ratio and AOFAS (p: 0,995). Conclusion: Elastography is not a useful technique to evaluate functional results on long-term tendon healing. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective comparative study.