Anatomical features of plantar aponeurosis: cadaveric study using ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging

Abstract

We have described the detailed anatomy of the plantar aponeurosis with emphasis on the more distal structures that can be visualized with MRI. There was no statistically significant difference between the accuracy of ultrasonography and MRI regarding the measurements of the thickness of the central and lateral portions of the plantar aponeurosis. Knowledge of the normal anatomy of these structures enables the radiologist to identify early alterations, providing timely diagnosis and treatment.

Achilles tendon and plantar fascia in recently diagnosed type II diabetes: role of body mass index

“…Ultrasonographic evaluation was performed by the same operator (AM), using a high-resolution, multi-frequency (10-14 MHz) linear array transducer (ProSound ALPHA 10, Aloka, Japan), according to standard protocols [11,12]. Both longitudinal and transverse scans were taken.…”

“…PF thickness was registered 1 cm distal to the attachment at the calcaneus, in the central portion [12]; AT thickness was measured in the midportion, as maximum antero-posterior diameter [11]. Measurements were expressed in millimeters (instrument accuracy, 0.1 mm).…”

Imaging of plantar fascia and Achilles injuries undertaken at the London 2012 Olympics

“…The central portion is the broadest and strongest component of the fascia and it originates at the medial calcaneal tuberosity. Distally at the level of the metatarsals, it divides into five fascicles, and these in turn have superficial and deep branches which have attachments to the skin, to the flexor tendon sheaths, and to the plantar plates of the metatarsophalangeal joints in each toe [1]. The lateral portion originates adjacent to the central portion, and divides into medial and lateral components which insert onto the 3 rd or 4 th metatarsophalangeal joints and the base of the 5 th metatarsal respectively.…”

“…The lateral portion originates adjacent to the central portion, and divides into medial and lateral components which insert onto the 3 rd or 4 th metatarsophalangeal joints and the base of the 5 th metatarsal respectively. The medial portion is thinner and forms the fascia over abductor hallucis [1].…”

“…Provided the insonating beam is directed perpendicular to the fascia, it appears as a striated echogenic structure, tapering smoothly from proximal to distal. Within 10mm of its origin, the central portion measures 3-4mm in thickness [1] [4].…”