Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 1, 2026
Ultrasound Tissue Characterization of Human Achilles Tendon by Stability Quantification of Echo Patterns
Published on: September 5, 2025
[Transient elastography of calcaneal tendon: preliminary results and future prospects]
S Aubry1, J-R Risson, B Barbier-Brion
1Service de radiologie A, CHU Jean Minjoz, boulevard Fleming, Besançon, France. radio.aubry@free.fr
Purpose:
To evaluate transient ShearWave elastography of the normal Achilles' tendon.
Patients And Methods:
The Achilles' tendon of 30 normal subjects were prospectively assessed using a Rubi V1Sq prototype (Supersonic Imagine). Quantitative elastography maps displayed in kilopascals with a scale of 0 to 600kPa were generated from transverse and longitudinal images at 3 different levels of plantar flexion. Subgroups were compared and analyzed based on proven or suspected variation factors (age, gender, level of physical activity).
Results:
On sagittal images, mean elasticity was 104±46kPa during extension, 464±144kPa in neutral position and 410±196kPa during maximum dorsiflexion. There was significant increase in elasticity when the Achilles' tendon was maximally stretched (p<0.01). The intra-individual correlation between right and left tendons during ankle extension was good (Pearson Coefficient 0.8; p<0.01). Finally, physically active subjects showed significantly greater elasticity than non-active subjects (p<0.05).
Conclusion:
Transient ShearWave elastography of the Achilles' tendon is a simple technique that provides real-time information about tissue elasticity.
