Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 20, 2026
12:00
Evaluation of a Novel Laser-assisted Coronary Anastomotic Connector - the Trinity Clip - in a Porcine Off-pump Bypass Model
Published on: November 24, 2014
16.0K
Intraoperative value of the thompson test
Daniel J Cuttica1, Christopher F Hyer2, Gregory C Berlet3
1Attending Physician, The Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Center, Washington, DC.
Summary
The Thompson test accurately diagnoses complete Achilles tendon ruptures but may not detect partial tears. Deep foot flexor tendons do not produce falsely intact Achilles tendon signs.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Anatomy
Background:
- The Thompson test is a clinical maneuver used to assess Achilles tendon integrity.
- Concerns exist regarding its accuracy in diagnosing partial ruptures and its intraoperative utility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic validity of the Thompson sign.
- To determine if deep foot flexor tendons can mimic an intact Achilles tendon.
Main Methods:
- Ten cadaveric lower extremity specimens were utilized.
- The Achilles tendon was sequentially sectioned (25% increments) with Thompson testing after each stage.
- Deep flexor tendons were released in varying orders, with testing after each release.
Main Results:
- The Thompson sign remained intact after 25-75% Achilles tendon sectioning.
- The sign was absent only after complete (100%) Achilles tendon rupture.
- Releasing other foot tendons did not yield a falsely positive Thompson sign.
Conclusions:
- The Thompson test is reliable for diagnosing complete Achilles tendon ruptures.
- Its utility for partial ruptures and in intraoperative settings is questionable.
- Deep foot flexor tendons do not create false positives for Achilles tendon integrity.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
451
The key difference between Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT) and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) lies in their location and severity.Clinical ManifestationsSVT typically presents with localized pain, tenderness, and redness along the course of a superficial vein, often accompanied by a palpable, cord-like structure under the skin. This condition is usually less dangerous than DVT but can be uncomfortable and may lead to complications such as cellulitis or, rarely, a clot extension into the deep...
451
01:23McNemar's Test
1.0K
McNemar's Test is a nonparametric statistical test used to determine if there is a significant difference in proportions between two related groups when the outcome is binary (e.g., yes/no, success/failure). It is beneficial when we have paired data, such as pre-test/post-test designs, where the same subjects are measured under two different conditions. The test is named after the statistician Quinn McNemar, who introduced it in 1947. It is commonly used in situations where subjects are...
1.0K