Tendon Disorders

The clinically important tendons around the elbow include the biceps and triceps brachii and the flexor and extensor muscles of the forearm. Familiarity with the normal magnetic resonance (MR) appearance of these structures facilitates the MR diagnosis of tendon abnormalities. Often referred to as epicondylitis, degeneration of the flexor or extensor groups is a common clinical complaint, treated conservatively and usually not requiring MR imaging. Imaging may play a role in unusual or severe cases; elevated signal in the appropriate common tendon origin is typically seen on T2 weighted images. Significant injury or disruption of the distal biceps or triceps tendons is a rare event, usually related to an acute event. Discontinuity of these tendons is best imaged using sagittal and axial T2 weighted sequences. Partial tears may demonstrate tendon irregularity and elevated signal within and around the tendon.