[Achilles tendon rupture-Part 1: etiology and diagnostics]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Radiology

Background:

• The Achilles tendon is crucial for locomotion, and its rupture severely impacts mobility.
• Clinical diagnosis of Achilles tendon rupture can be challenging due to factors like hematoma.
• Imaging modalities are essential for accurate assessment and treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the role of sonography and MRI in diagnosing Achilles tendon ruptures.
• To assess the effectiveness of imaging in guiding treatment decisions.
• To monitor the healing process of Achilles tendon ruptures using sonography.

Main Methods:

• Clinical examination including Thompson test and one-leg heel raise.
• Dynamic sonography to assess tendon end adaptation and localization.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for detailed tendon structure evaluation.
• Sonographic follow-up examinations at 4 and 8 weeks post-treatment.

Main Results:

• Sonography effectively determines rupture localization and dynamic tendon end adaptation.
• Complete adaptation of tendon ends suggests suitability for conservative treatment.
• Sonographic follow-up shows increased volume at the rupture site, indicating normal healing.
• MRI verifies rupture and provides detailed structural information.

Conclusions:

• Sonography and MRI are valuable tools for diagnosing Achilles tendon ruptures.
• Imaging guides the choice between conservative and surgical management.
• Serial sonography effectively monitors the healing trajectory of Achilles tendon ruptures.