Variability of MRI reporting in proximal hamstring avulsion injuries: Are musculoskeletal radiologists and orthopedic surgeons utilizing similar landmarks?

Abstract

BackgroundMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an integral component of the treatment algorithm for proximal hamstring avulsion injuries. ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to survey orthopedic surgeons and musculoskeletal radiologists on the reporting and analysis of proximal hamstring avulsions on MRI. MethodsTwo online surveys were developed to evaluate musculoskeletal radiologists' and orthopedic surgeons' perceptions of MRI-reporting for proximal hamstring avulsion injuries. Each survey was designed to provide information on physicians' best practices with respect to four primary questions (1) ischial tuberosity landmark determination (2) difficulties associated with measuring tendon retraction, (3) important ancillary findings, and (4) perceived clinical impact of measured retraction.Descriptive statistics were calculated for all categorical variables, which were reported as frequencies with percentages. Chi-squared test was utilized to compare rates of responses between surgeons and radiologists. Statistically significant differences were analyzed with post-hoc Fisher's exact tests; p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results218-Musculoskeletal radiologists and 33-orthopedic surgeons responded to their respective surveys. There were statistically significant differences with responses to two of the questions asked in both surveys; (1) in cases of complete hamstring avulsion (avulsion of both the semimembranosus and conjoint tendon), which arrow represents the tendon gap measurement used for planning surgery? p = 0.028; (2) in cases of avulsion of only the conjoint tendon, which arrow represents the tendon gap measurement used for planning surgery? p = 0.013. Post-hoc testing demonstrated that for either partial or complete hamstring avulsions, more surgeons use the conjoint tendon origin to measure tendon retraction than radiologists (p < 0.05 for both). Significantly more radiologists use the semimembranosus origin to measure hamstring retraction for partial or complete hamstring tears (p < 0.05 for both). However, for each of these questions, both radiologists and surgeons most frequently stated that the conjoint tendon landmark should be used for surgical planning. ConclusionMusculoskeletal radiologists and orthopedists frequently utilize the conjoint tendon origin as an anatomic landmark for measuring complete and partial proximal hamstring avulsion injuries; though, orthopedists are more likely to utilize this landmark. Additionally, the broad surface area of the ischial tuberosity may lead to variability in measurement. Clinical impactStandard landmarks at the ischial tuberosity and/or detailed descriptions of tendon retractions would improve communication between radiologists and surgeons for proximal hamstring avulsions.