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.

Diagnostic value of Achilles tendon shear wave elastography in patients with ankylosing spondylitis: A case–control study

“…Ultrasound (US) has become a frequently used method in diagnosis and follow-up because it is easily accessible, low-cost, and rapid. 2 Ultrasound-based elastography imaging methods have received great attention because they provide a noninvasive evaluation of tissue mechanical properties. These techniques take advantage of changing soft tissue elasticity to provide data that can be used for diagnostic purposes in various pathologies.…”

“…Although MRI is a useful tool in diagnosis, its use is limited due to its high cost and time‐consuming. Ultrasound (US) has become a frequently used method in diagnosis and follow‐up because it is easily accessible, low‐cost, and rapid 2 . Ultrasound‐based elastography imaging methods have received great attention because they provide a noninvasive evaluation of tissue mechanical properties.…”