Evaluation of Achilles Tendon Injuries by Ultrasonography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Abstract

Achilles tendon disorders are a common health problem in middle-aged active people. With increasing sport activities in the general population, the number of overuse injuries has increased. Tendon disorders comprise 30–50% of all sports-related injuries. To evaluate the Injuries of Achilles tendon by ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging MRI. A cross sectional study was conducted including 20 patients complaining from distal leg pain with history of trauma to lower leg in Achilles tendon to be evaluated by ultrasonography and further evaluation by magnetic resonance imaging. The duration of the study was from 6 to 12 months. The mean age of cases was 41.80±10.7 with range of (20-50) years, 50% was in age group of (41-50) and percent of females was 45% and males was 55%. Ultrasonography is an initial imaging of choice for evaluation of symptomatic Achilles tendon disorders. Diagnostic sensitivity reaches 91.1%. However, Tendons that appeared normal by US should be followed by MRI for more diagnostic accuracy, detailed regional evaluation and subsequently can exclude other etiologies giving similar clinical manifestations.