Sonoelastography of the Achilles tendon: a review

Abstract

Sonoelastography (SEL) is a method that evaluates the mechanical properties of tissue by detecting tissue displacement and strain after stress applied to the tissue. There are various SEL techniques used in clinical practice. Strain elastography (SE), which allows real-time visualization of the tissue elastographic map, is the most widely used technique. There is increasing evidence that SEL can be used to measure the mechanical properties of musculoskeletal tissue in clinical practice. It is thought to have the potential to guide both early diagnosis and treatment monitoring and therapy in the future. This review describes various Achilles tendon SEL techniques and published evidence for clinical use and includes discussions on the use and limitations of SEL in the musculoskeletal system and future perspectives.