US in mid-portion Achilles tendon injury

Abstract

Ultrasound (US) is the primary imaging technique used to evaluate pathologies affecting the tendons, as the use of high frequency probes permits a detailed study of the structure and morphology of the area also during dynamic examinations. The mid-portion of the Achilles tendon is well evaluated both in normal and pathological conditions, such as tendinosis and peritendinitis as well as partial-thickness and full-thickness tears. The role of US is essential to the diagnosis and, therefore, also to treatment planning in major disorders affecting the Achilles tendon. US furthermore allows the clinician to monitor the effectiveness of treatment over time as well as the risk of recurrent rupture after surgery. © 2013 Società Italiana di Ultrasonologia in Medicina e Biologia (SIUMB).