1
|
Römer C, Czupajllo J, Wolfarth B, Sichting F, Legerlotz K. The Myometric Assessment of Achilles Tendon and Soleus Muscle Stiffness before and after a Standardized Exercise Test in Elite Female Volleyball and Handball Athletes-A Quasi-Experimental Study. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3243. [PMID: 38892954 PMCID: PMC11172482 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13113243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The high prevalence of injuries in female athletes necessitates a course of action that not only enhances research in this field but also incorporates improved prevention programs and regular health monitoring of highly stressed structures such as tendons and muscles. Since myometry is already used by coaches and physiotherapists, it is important to investigate whether tissue stiffness varies in different types of sports, and whether such measures are affected by an acute training session. Methods: Myometric measurements of the Achilles tendon (AT) and soleus muscle (SM) were performed in the longitudinal plane and relaxed tendon position. In total, 38 healthy professional female athletes were examined, applying a quasi-experimental study design, with subgroup analysis performed for different sports. To investigate the stiffness of the AT and SM, 24 female handball and volleyball athletes performed a standardized maximal incremental performance test on a treadmill. In this subgroup, myometric measurements were taken before and after the exercise test. Results: The measurements showed no significant difference between the mean pre- (AT: 661.46 N/m; SM 441.48 N/m) and post-exercise stiffness (AT: 644.71 N/m; SM: 439.07 N/m). Subgroup analysis for different types of sports showed significantly lower AT and SM stiffness in swimming athletes compared to handball (p = 0.002), volleyball (p = 0.000) and hammer throw athletes (p = 0.008). Conclusions: Myometry can be performed on the same day as an acute training session in healthy female professional volleyball and handball athletes. Female swimmers have significantly lower AT and SM stiffness compared to female handball, volleyball and hammer throw athletes. These results show that the stiffness differences in the AT and SM can be assessed by myometry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Römer
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité University Medicine Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Czupajllo
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité University Medicine Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernd Wolfarth
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité University Medicine Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Freddy Sichting
- Department of Human Movement Science, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09111 Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Kirsten Legerlotz
- Movement Biomechanics, Institute of Sport Sciences, Humboldt University Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tobaly D, Tétreault P, Cloutier G, Choinière M, Grondin P, Freire V, Julien AS, Bureau NJ. Assessing the treatment response of lateral elbow tendinopathy using time-dependent ultrasonography, Doppler imaging, and elastography. Insights Imaging 2024; 15:113. [PMID: 38734857 PMCID: PMC11088583 DOI: 10.1186/s13244-024-01695-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the structural alterations, neovascularity, and elasticity of tendons and the relationship between elasticity and the Patient Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation score after undergoing US-guided fenestration or surgery in patients with chronic lateral elbow tendinopathy. METHODS Participants from the per-protocol population of a randomized trial conducted between October 2016 and June 2020 were included. The surgery and fenestration groups included 24 (mean age, 50 ± 7 years [standard deviation], 10 men) and 29 (47 ± 8 years, 18 men) participants, respectively. Ultrasound exams were performed at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. Statistical analyses included linear mixed effects and generalized equation estimation models. RESULTS Fenestration had no significant impact on tendon thickness (p = 0.46). Conversely, surgery significantly increased tendon thickness at 6 months (p < 0.0001) and remained elevated at 12 months (p = 0.04). Tendon echostructure exhibited a group effect (p = 0.03), indicating a higher proportion of pathological scores in the surgery group post-intervention compared to the fenestration group. Both groups showed a similar reduction in neovascularity from 6 to 12 months postintervention (p = 0.006). Shear-wave velocity increased in the fenestration group at 6 months (p = 0.04), while the surgery group experienced a nonsignificant decrease at 6 months, with some improvement at 12 months (p = 0.08). Changes in shear-wave velocity did not correlate with clinical outcome. CONCLUSIONS Fenestration and surgery reduced tendon neovascularity over time. Unlike surgery, fenestration did not impact tendon size while improving tendon echostructure and elasticity. CRITICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT Fenestration and surgery equally alleviated symptoms and decreased tendon neovascularity in lateral elbow tendinopathy; however, fenestration did not alter tendon thickness and improved echostructure and shear-wave velocity, suggesting shear-wave velocity's potential for quantitatively monitoring tendon elasticity during healing. KEY POINTS Reliable markers for monitoring healing response and informing treatment protocols in elbow tendinopathy are lacking. Fenestration and surgery reduced tendon neovascularity, while fenestration improved tendon echostructure and shear-wave velocity. Shear-wave velocity may provide quantitative measures to monitor tendon elasticity in response to treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Tobaly
- Department of Radiology, St Mary's Hospital Center, 3830 Lacombe Avenue, Montreal, QC, H3T 1M5, Canada
| | - Patrice Tétreault
- Department of Orthopedics, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), 1000 rue Saint-Denis, Montreal, QC, H2X 0C1, Canada
| | - Guy Cloutier
- Research Center, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), 900 rue Saint-Denis, Montreal, QC, H2X 0A9, Canada
| | - Manon Choinière
- Research Center, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), 900 rue Saint-Denis, Montreal, QC, H2X 0A9, Canada
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Université de Montréal, C.P. 6128, succursale Centre-ville, Montreal, QC, H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Philippe Grondin
- Department of Orthopedics, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), 1000 rue Saint-Denis, Montreal, QC, H2X 0C1, Canada
| | - Véronique Freire
- Department of Radiology, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), 1000 rue Saint-Denis, Montreal, QC, H2X 0C1, Canada
| | - Anne-Sophie Julien
- Department of Mathematics and Statistic, Université Laval, 1045 avenue de la Médecine, Quebec City, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Nathalie J Bureau
- Research Center, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), 900 rue Saint-Denis, Montreal, QC, H2X 0A9, Canada.
- Department of Radiology, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), 1000 rue Saint-Denis, Montreal, QC, H2X 0C1, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lerchbaumer MH, Perschk M, Gwinner C. Ultrasound in sports traumatology. ROFO-FORTSCHR RONTG 2024; 196:440-449. [PMID: 37944936 DOI: 10.1055/a-2185-8264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ultrasound (US) has numerous applications in sports traumatology. The technical progress of mobile US devices has led to increasing use of ultrasound as a primary diagnostic tool. New applications such as elastography and 3 D vascularization are used for special indications. METHOD The purpose of this review is to present the current status of ultrasound in the diagnosis of sports injuries and sport traumatology including established applications and new technical advances. US is presented both in its comparison to other imaging modalities and as a sole diagnostic tool. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION US can be used for initial diagnosis to improve the clinical examination and for intensive short-term follow-up imaging. The main areas of application are currently the diagnosis of acute muscle and tendon injuries as well as overuse injuries. In particular, the exclusion of structural muscle injuries can be adequately ensured with US in the majority of anatomical regions. The recently published guideline on fracture ultrasound has strengthened the clinical evidence in this area, especially in comparison to conventional radiography and in the development of algorithms and standards. The increasing use of mobile ultrasound equipment with adequate image quality makes US a location-independent modality that can also be used at training sites or during road games. KEY POINTS · Typically used for quick, focused initial diagnostic assessment and short-term follow-up after injury. · Mobile US devices allow increased use in training centers and training camps. · New US applications (SWE, 3 D) increase standardization in follow-up of tendon injuries. · Targeted use of US for musculoskeletal diagnostic assessment saves money and frees up capacity. CITATION FORMAT · Lerchbaumer MH, Perschk M, Gwinner C. Ultrasound in sports traumatology. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2024; 196: 440 - 449.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Markus Herbert Lerchbaumer
- Department of Radiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
- 1. FC Union Berlin, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Clemens Gwinner
- Center for Musculoskeletal Surgery, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
- 1. FC Union Berlin, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kraszewski A, Argentieri E, Harris K, Toresdahl B, Drakos M, Hillstrom H, Allen A, Nwawka OK. Association Between Patellar Tendon Abnormality and Land-Jump Biomechanics in Male Collegiate Basketball Players During the Preseason. Orthop J Sports Med 2024; 12:23259671241242008. [PMID: 38686323 PMCID: PMC11057346 DOI: 10.1177/23259671241242008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Patellar tendinopathy is a degenerative condition that predominantly affects jumping athletes. Symptoms may be subtle or nonexistent at preseason, but structural abnormalities may be present. Assessing patellar tendon abnormality (PTA) through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound (US) and classifying symptoms using the Victorian Institute for Sport Assessment-Patellar tendon (VISA-P) may provide useful insights if combined with biomechanics measurements. Purpose To (1) assess whether land-jump biomechanical patterns are associated with clinically pertinent PTA as seen on imaging and through VISA-P scores and (2) model the contributing risk and accuracy of biomechanics to classify PTA and symptomatic observations. Study Design Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods A total of 26 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I and II male basketball players (n = 52 limbs) were recruited during the preseason. We collected VISA-P scores, bilateral PTA through US and MRI morphology measurements, and bilateral 3-dimensional lower extremity kinematics and kinetics measurements from a land-jump test from an 18-inch-high (45.7-cm-high) box. Statistically, each limb was treated independently. The association of biomechanics with PTA and symptoms (VISA-P score <80) was tested with multivariate models and post hoc tests. Logistic regression modeled relative risk and accuracy of biomechanical variables to classify PTA and symptomatic limbs. Results There were 19 to 24 limbs with PTA depending on US and MRI measurements. Differences in hip and knee kinematic strategies and ground-reaction loads were associated with PTA and symptomatic limbs. Peak landing vertical ground-reaction force was significantly decreased (169 ± 26 vs 195 ± 29 %body weight; P = .001), and maximum hip flexion velocity was significantly increased (416 ± 74 vs 343 ± 94 deg/s; P = .005) in limbs with versus without PTA on imaging. Knee flexion at the initial contact was decreased in symptomatic versus healthy limbs (17°± 5° vs 21°± 5°, respectively; P = .045). Regression models classified PTA limbs and symptomatic limbs with 71.2% to 86.5% accuracy. Hip and knee maximum flexion velocity and vertical ground-reaction force variables were most common across models observing clinically pertinent PTA. Conclusion Our findings suggested that functional kinematic and kinetic biomechanical strategies at the hip and knee were associated with PTA, identified on imaging, and symptomatic limbs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Erin Argentieri
- University of California–Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Kindred Harris
- University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | | | - Mark Drakos
- Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sukanen M, Khair RM, Ihalainen JK, Laatikainen-Raussi I, Eon P, Nordez A, Finni T. Achilles tendon and triceps surae muscle properties in athletes. Eur J Appl Physiol 2024; 124:633-647. [PMID: 37950761 PMCID: PMC10858159 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-023-05348-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to investigate internal Achilles tendon (AT) displacement, AT shear wave velocity (SWV), and triceps surae (TS) muscle shear modulus in athletes. METHODS Internal AT displacement was assessed using ultrasound during isometric contraction. Shear wave elastography was used to assess AT SWV (m × s-1) at rest and TS muscle shear modulus (kPa) during passive ankle dorsiflexion. RESULTS A total of 131 athletes participated in this study. Athletes who had not exercised within two days had greater AT non-uniformity and mean anterior tendon displacement, and lower SWV at the proximal AT measurement site (mean difference [95% CI]: 1.8 mm [0.6-2.9], p = 0.003; 1.6 mm [0.2-2.9], p = 0.021; - 0.9 m × s-1 [- 1.6 to - 0.2], p = 0.014, respectively). Male basketball players had a lower mean AT displacement compared to gymnasts (- 3.7 mm [- 6.9 to - 0.5], p = 0.042), with the difference localised in the anterior half of the tendon (- 5.1 mm [- 9.0 to - 1.1], p = 0.022). Male gymnasts had a smaller absolute difference in medial gastrocnemius-minus-soleus shear modulus than basketball players (59.6 kPa [29.0-90.2], p < 0.001) and track and field athletes (52.7 kPa [19.2-86.3], p = 0.004). Intraclass correlation coefficients of measurements ranged from 0.720 to 0.937 for internal AT displacement, from 0.696 to 0.936 for AT SWE, and from 0.570 to 0.890 for TS muscles. CONCLUSION This study provides a reliability assessment of muscle and tendon SWV. The relative differences in passive TS muscle shear modulus suggest sport-specific adaptation. Importantly, in healthy individuals, lower AT displacement after exercise may reflect the time required for tendon recovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Sukanen
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.
| | - Ra'ad M Khair
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Johanna K Ihalainen
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | | | - Pauline Eon
- Nantes Université, Movement-Interactions-Performance, MIP, UR 4334, F-44000, Nantes, France
| | - Antoine Nordez
- Nantes Université, Movement-Interactions-Performance, MIP, UR 4334, F-44000, Nantes, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
| | - Taija Finni
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Crawford SK, Wille CM, Joachim MR, Lee KS, Heiderscheit BC. Ultrasound shear wave seeds reduced following hamstring strain injury but not after returning to sport. Insights Imaging 2024; 15:7. [PMID: 38191955 PMCID: PMC10774410 DOI: 10.1186/s13244-023-01571-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of the study was to investigate differences in ultrasound shear wave speed (SWS) between uninjured and injured limbs following hamstring strain injury (HSI) at time of injury (TOI), return to sport (RTS), and 12 weeks after RTS (12wks). METHODS This observational, prospective, cross-sectional design included male and female collegiate athletes who sustained an HSI. SWS imaging was performed at TOI, RTS, and 12wks with magnetic resonance imaging. SWS maps were acquired by a musculoskeletal-trained sonographer at the injury location of the injured limb and location-matched on the contralateral limb. The average SWS from three 5 mm diameter Q-boxes on each limb were used for analysis. A linear mixed effects model was performed to determine differences in SWS between limbs across the study time points. RESULTS SWS was lower in the injured limb compared to the contralateral limb at TOI (uninjured - injured limb difference: 0.23 [0.05, 0.41] m/s, p = 0.006). No between-limb differences in SWS were observed at RTS (0.15 [-0.05, 0.36] m/s, p = 0.23) or 12wks (-0.11 [-0.41, 0.18] m/s, p = 0.84). CONCLUSIONS The SWS in the injured limb of collegiate athletes after HSI was lower compared to the uninjured limb at TOI but not at RTS or 12 weeks after RTS. CRITICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT Hamstring strain injury with structural disruption can be detected by lower injured limb shear wave speed compared to the uninjured limb. Lack of between-limb differences at return to sport may demonstrate changes consistent with healing. Shear wave speed may complement traditional ultrasound or MRI for monitoring muscle injury. KEY POINTS • Ultrasound shear wave speed can non-invasively measure tissue elasticity in muscle injury locations. • Injured limb time of injury shear wave speeds were lower versus uninjured limb but not thereafter. • Null return to sport shear wave speed differences may correspond to structural changes associated with healing. • Shear wave speed may provide quantitative measures for monitoring muscle elasticity during recovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott K Crawford
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1300 University Ave, Madison, WI, 53706, USA.
- Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1685 Highland Ave, Madison, WI, 53705, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Christa M Wille
- Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1685 Highland Ave, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Badger Athletic Performance Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Mikel R Joachim
- Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1685 Highland Ave, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
- Badger Athletic Performance Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kenneth S Lee
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Bryan C Heiderscheit
- Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1685 Highland Ave, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Badger Athletic Performance Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Albano D, Basile M, Gitto S, Messina C, Longo S, Fusco S, Snoj Z, Gianola S, Bargeri S, Castellini G, Sconfienza LM. Shear-wave elastography for the evaluation of tendinopathies: a systematic review and meta-analysis. LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2024; 129:107-117. [PMID: 37907673 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-023-01732-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare pathologic and healthy tendons using shear-wave elastography (SWE). METHODS A systematic review with meta-analysis was done searching Pubmed and EMBASE up to September 2022. Prospective, retrospective and cross-sectional studies that used SWE in the assessment of pathologic tendons versus control were included. Our primary outcome were SWE velocity (m/s) and stiffness (kPa). Methodological quality was assessed by the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS). We used the mean difference (MD) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to quantify effects between groups. We performed sensitivity analysis in case of high heterogeneity, after excluding poor quality studies according to MINORS assessment. We used Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation to evaluate the certainty of evidence (CoE). RESULTS Overall, 16 studies with 676 pathologic tendons (188 Achilles, 142 patellar, 96 supraspinatus, 250 mixed) and 723 control tendons (484 healthy; 239 contralateral tendon) were included. Five studies (31.3%) were judged as poor methodological quality. Shear-wave velocity and stiffness meta-analyses showed high heterogeneity. According to a sensitivity analysis, pathologic tendons had a lower shear wave velocity (MD of - 1.69 m/s; 95% CI 1.85; - 1.52; n = 274; I2 50%) compared to healthy tendons with very low CoE. Sensitivity analysis on stiffness still showed high heterogeneity. CONCLUSION Pathological tendons may have reduced SWE velocity compared to controls, but the evidence is very uncertain. Future robust high-quality longitudinal studies and clear technical indications on the use of this tool are needed. PROTOCOL PROSPERO identifier: CRD42023405410 CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: SWE is a relatively recent modality that may increase sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy of conventional ultrasound imaging promoting early detection of tendinopathy. Non-negligible heterogeneity has been observed in included studies, so our findings may encourage the conduct of future high-quality longitudinal studies which can provide clear technical indications on the use of this promising tool in tendon imaging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Albano
- Unità Operativa di Radiologia Diagnostica ed Interventistica, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Via Cristina Belgioioso 173, 20157, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| | - Mariachiara Basile
- Scuola di Specializzazione in Radiodiagnostica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Salvatore Gitto
- Unità Operativa di Radiologia Diagnostica ed Interventistica, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Via Cristina Belgioioso 173, 20157, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Carmelo Messina
- Unità Operativa di Radiologia Diagnostica ed Interventistica, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Via Cristina Belgioioso 173, 20157, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Longo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Fusco
- Scuola di Specializzazione in Radiodiagnostica, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Ziga Snoj
- Clinical Radiology Institute, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine - Department of Radiology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Silvia Gianola
- Unit of Clinical Epidemiology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, 20157, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Bargeri
- Unit of Clinical Epidemiology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, 20157, Milan, Italy
| | - Greta Castellini
- Unit of Clinical Epidemiology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, 20157, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Maria Sconfienza
- Unità Operativa di Radiologia Diagnostica ed Interventistica, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Via Cristina Belgioioso 173, 20157, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Althoff AD, Vance K, Plain M, Reeves RA, Pierce J, Gwathmey FW, Werner BC. Evaluation of Achilles Tendon Stiffness as Measured by Shear Wave Elastography in Female College Athletes Compared With Nonathletes. Sports Health 2024; 16:12-18. [PMID: 36856196 PMCID: PMC10732119 DOI: 10.1177/19417381231153657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We sought to utilize a noninvasive technology to assess the effects of activity on Achilles tendon stiffness and define baseline Achilles tendon stiffness in female college athletes compared with nonathletes using tendon shear wave velocity as a marker for tendon stiffness. HYPOTHESIS Training status and exercise may affect Achilles tendon stiffness. STUDY DESIGN LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level 4. METHODS A total of 32 college-age female athletes were prospectively enrolled (n = 17 varsity athletes and n = 15 nonathletes). Demographic characteristics, activity level, and previous injuries were recorded. Sonographic shear wave elastography (SWE) was used to assess Achilles tendon shear wave velocity bilaterally for all subjects, both at baseline and after 2 minutes of exercise. Student t tests were used to compare the mean elastography measurements between participants stratified by athlete status and pre/postexercise stimulus. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare the mean proximal, middle, and distal Achilles tendon elastography measurements. RESULTS As seen by a greater mean shear wave velocity (8.60 ± 1.58 m/s vs 8.25 ± 1.89 m/s; P = 0.02), athletes had stiffer tendons than nonathletes. Exercise stimulus decreased average tendon shear wave velocity (8.57 ± 1.74 m/s vs 8.28 ± 1.72 m/s; P = 0.05). Tendon shear wave velocity was greatest proximally and least distally with significant differences between each region (P < 0.001). In addition, there was a significant 2-way interaction between weekly training status and foot dominance (P = 0.01). Post hoc analysis showed that this result was due to differences in tendon shear wave velocity between the dominant and nondominant lower extremity in nonathletes (7.73 ± 2.00 m/s vs 8.76 ± 1.62 m/s; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Female varsity collegiate athletes have higher baseline Achilles tendon stiffness as measured by SWE compared with nonathletes. Mean tendon stiffness varies based on Achilles measurement location. SWE is a quick, cost-effective, and noninvasive imaging modality that can be used to evaluate tendon stiffness and elasticity. CLINICAL RELEVANCE SWE is an efficient and noninvasive imaging modality that can evaluate dynamic tendon stiffness and elasticity. SWE may be helpful to assess injuries in female college athletes and may play a role in risk stratification or clinical follow-up. In theory, SWE could be used to identify athletes with increased elasticity as a marker for potential risk for rupture in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa D. Althoff
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Kayleigh Vance
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Megan Plain
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Russell A. Reeves
- Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jennifer Pierce
- Department of Radiology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Frank W. Gwathmey
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Brian C. Werner
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Xu GX, Chen PY, Huang CC. Visualization of Human Hand Tendon Mechanical Anisotropy in 3-D Using High- Frequency Dual-Direction Shear Wave Imaging. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON ULTRASONICS, FERROELECTRICS, AND FREQUENCY CONTROL 2023; 70:1457-1469. [PMID: 37669211 DOI: 10.1109/tuffc.2023.3312273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
High-resolution ultrasound shear wave elastography has been used to determine the mechanical properties of hand tendons. However, because of fiber orientation, tendons have anisotropic properties; this results in differences in shear wave velocity (SWV) between ultrasound scanning cross sections. Rotating transducers can be used to achieve full-angle scanning. However, this technique is inconvenient to implement in clinical settings. Therefore, in this study, high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) dual-direction shear wave imaging (DDSWI) based on two external vibrators was used to create both transverse and longitudinal shear waves in the human flexor carpi radialis tendon. SWV maps from two directions were obtained using 40-MHz ultrafast imaging at the same scanning cross section. The anisotropic map was calculated pixel by pixel, and 3-D information was obtained using mechanical scanning. A standard phantom experiment was then conducted to verify the performance of the proposed HFUS DDSWI technique. Human studies were also conducted where volunteers assumed three hand postures: relaxed (Rel), full fist (FF), and tabletop (TT). The experimental results indicated that both the transverse and longitudinal SWVs increased due to tendon flexion. The transverse SWV surpassed the longitudinal SWV in all cases. The average anisotropic ratios for the Rel, FF, and TT hand postures were 1.78, 2.01, and 2.21, respectively. Both the transverse and the longitudinal SWVs were higher at the central region of the tendon than at the surrounding region. In conclusion, the proposed HFUS DDSWI technique is a high-resolution imaging technique capable of characterizing the anisotropic properties of tendons in clinical applications.
Collapse
|
10
|
Römer C, Legerlotz K, Czupajllo J, Fischer T, Wolfarth B, Lerchbaumer MH. Acute Effects of Running on Shear Wave Elastography Measures of the Achilles Tendon and Calf Muscles in Professional Female Handball and Volleyball Players. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2957. [PMID: 37761324 PMCID: PMC10530130 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13182957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) is currently used to detect tissue pathologies, i.e., tendinopathy. For preventive medicine, it is important to examine the sensitivity of SWE and to investigate how stiffness measures are affected by methodological variables. The aim of this study is to examine shear wave elastography (SWE) measures in order to compare the pre- and post-running values and to determine the correlation between the shear wave speed values (m/s). SWE examinations of the Achilles tendon (AT), soleus muscle (MS) and gastrocnemius muscle (MG)) were performed in 24 healthy professional female athletes. Measurements of the shear wave speed (m/s) were taken before and after incremental treadmill running until exhaustion. Correlations were investigated using the Pearson correlation coefficient and were examined for significance using the Student's t-test. The pre- and post-exercise shear wave speed did not differ. The pre-exercise and post-exercise stiffness for MS (r = 0.613), MG (r = 0.609) and AT (r = 0.583) correlated strongly. The pre-exercise values and changes in stiffness showed a significant correlation (p < 0.001). In professional athletes, acute exercise induces different tissue stiffness changes in AT, MS and MG for each individual. Thus, exercise activity immediately prior to the SWE measurement needs to be factored in when evaluating tissue stiffness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Römer
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Kirsten Legerlotz
- Movement Biomechanics, Institute of Sport Sciences, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Czupajllo
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Fischer
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Radiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernd Wolfarth
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Römer C, Zessin E, Czupajllo J, Fischer T, Wolfarth B, Lerchbaumer MH. Effect of Physical Parameters and Training Load on Patellar Tendon Stiffness in Professional Athletes. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2541. [PMID: 37568903 PMCID: PMC10417388 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13152541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injuries of the patellar tendon commonly occur as a result of mechanical loading of the tendon during physical activity. Shear wave elastography (SWE) is an established technique for assessing tendon stiffness, and has good interindividual reliability. The aim of this study was to investigate the impacts of physical parameters and different sports on patellar tendon stiffness in professional athletes using SWE. METHODS Standardized patellar tendon SWE was performed in a relaxed supine position with a small roll under the knee (20° flexion) in 60 healthy professional athletes (30 female, 30 male). Multiple linear regression was performed for patellar tendon stiffness including gender, age, body mass index (BMI), and type of sport. RESULTS Patellar tendon stiffness showed no significant difference between female (3.320 m/s) and male (3.416 m/s) professional athletes. Mean age (female: 20.53 years; male: 19.80 years) and BMI (female: 23.24 kg/m2; male: 23.52 kg/m2) were comparable. Female professional athletes with oral contraceptive (OC) intake showed higher patellar tendon stiffness than athletes without OC intake (3.723 versus 3.017; p = 0.053), but not significantly. CONCLUSION In professional athletes, there are no significant differences in patellar tendon stiffness according to gender, age, BMI and type of sport (handball, volleyball, soccer, sprint, hammer throw). Oral contraceptives may not have an impact on patellar tendon stiffness in female athletes. Further studies are necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Römer
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Enrico Zessin
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Czupajllo
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Fischer
- Department of Radiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernd Wolfarth
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Hogaboom N, Shaw J, Barrance P, Capella T, Malanga G. A pilot study testing an Achilles tendinopathy human cadaver model using intratendinous injection of collagenase. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2023; 107:106034. [PMID: 37413812 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2023.106034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Achilles tendinopathy is one of the most frequently occurring soft-tissue injuries. Despite decades of research, there is still much that is unknown about the progression of tendinopathy. Animal models, such as collagenase injection, allow researchers to gain insight into disease progression and investigate clinical interventions, yet are limited in their direct application to humans. Establishment of a cadaver model of tendinopathy would provide another method of investigating clinical interventions in human tissues. The purpose of this study is to develop such a model and evaluate biomechanical changes in cadaveric Achilles tendons using ultrasound elastography. METHODS Achilles tendons of five female foot/ankle cadavers were injected with two different concentrations (three with 10 mg/mL, two 20 mg/mL) of collagenase and incubated for 24 h. Ultrasound elastography images were collected at baseline, 16 and 24 h post-injection. Elasticity of tendons was calculated using a custom image analysis program. FINDINGS Elasticity decreased over time in both dosage groups. In the 10 mg/mL group, mean elasticity decreased from 642 ± 246 kPa at baseline to 392 ± 38.3 kPa at 16 h and 263 ± 87.3 kPa at 24 h. In the 20 mg/mL group, mean elasticity decreased from 628 ± 206 kPa at baseline to 176 ± 152 kPa at 16 h and 188 ± 120 kPa at 24 h. INTERPRETATION Injection of collagenase into cadaveric Achilles tendons resulted in decreases in elasticity. Decreases were observed in tendons that received injections with both 10 and 20 mg/mL collagenase dosages. Further biomechanical and histological testing is needed to evaluate this cadaveric tendinopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Hogaboom
- Kessler Foundation, 1199 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ 07052, USA; Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 183 South Orange Avenue, Suite F-1560, Newark, NJ 07101, USA.
| | - Jonathan Shaw
- Tendonova, 3050 Business Park Drive, Suite A-2, Norcross, GA 30071, USA
| | - Peter Barrance
- Kessler Foundation, 1199 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ 07052, USA; Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, 183 South Orange Avenue, Suite F-1560, Newark, NJ 07101, USA
| | - Teresa Capella
- New Jersey Regenerative Institute, 197 Ridgedale Avenue, Suite 210, Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927, USA
| | - Gerard Malanga
- Tendonova, 3050 Business Park Drive, Suite A-2, Norcross, GA 30071, USA; New Jersey Regenerative Institute, 197 Ridgedale Avenue, Suite 210, Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Römer C, Zessin E, Czupajllo J, Fischer T, Wolfarth B, Lerchbaumer MH. Effect of Anthropometric Parameters on Achilles Tendon Stiffness of Professional Athletes Measured by Shear Wave Elastography. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12082963. [PMID: 37109299 PMCID: PMC10145458 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12082963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Shear wave elastography (SWE) is currently used to detect tissue pathologies and, in the setting of preventive medicine, may have the potential to reveal structural changes before they lead to functional impairment. Hence, it would be desirable to determine the sensitivity of SWE and to investigate how Achilles tendon stiffness is affected by anthropometric variables and sport-specific locomotion. METHODS To investigate the influence of anthropometric parameters on Achilles tendon stiffness using SWE and examine different types of sports to develop approaches in preventive medicine for professional athletes, standardized SWE of Achilles tendon stiffness was performed in 65 healthy professional athletes (33 female, 32 male) in the longitudinal plane and relaxed tendon position. Descriptive analysis and linear regression were performed. Furthermore, subgroup analysis was performed for different sports (soccer, handball, sprint, volleyball, hammer throw). RESULTS In the total study population (n = 65), Achilles tendon stiffness was significantly higher in male professional athletes (p < 0.001) than in female professional athletes (10.98 m/s (10.15-11.65) vs. 12.19 m/s (11.25-14.74)). Multiple linear regression for AT stiffness did not reveal a significant impact of age or body mass index (BMI) (p > 0.05). Subgroup analysis for type of sport showed the highest AT stiffness values in sprinters (14.02 m/s (13.50-14.63)). CONCLUSION There are significant gender differences in AT stiffness across different types of professional athletes. The highest AT stiffness values were found in sprinters, which needs to be considered when diagnosing tendon pathologies. Future studies are needed to investigate the benefit of pre- and post-season musculoskeletal SWE examinations of professional athletes and a possible benefit of rehabilitation or preventive medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Römer
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Enrico Zessin
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Czupajllo
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Fischer
- Department of Radiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernd Wolfarth
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Crawford SK, Thelen D, Yakey JM, Heiderscheit BC, Wilson JJ, Lee KS. Regional shear wave elastography of Achilles tendinopathy in symptomatic versus contralateral Achilles tendons. Eur Radiol 2023; 33:720-729. [PMID: 35760909 PMCID: PMC9771859 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-022-08957-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Ultrasound often corroborates clinical diagnosis of Achilles tendinopathy (AT). Traditional measures assess macromorphological features or use qualitative grading scales, primarily focused within the free tendon. Shear wave imaging can non-invasively quantify tendon elasticity, yet it is unknown if proximal structures are affected by tendon pathology. The purpose of the study was to determine the characteristics of both traditional sonographic measures and regional shear wave speed (SWS) between limbs in patients with AT. METHODS Twenty patients with chronic AT were recruited. Traditional sonographic measures of tendon structure were measured. Regional SWS was collected in a resting ankle position along the entire length of the tendon bilaterally. SWS measures were extracted and interpolated across evenly distributed points corresponding to the free tendon (FT), soleus aponeurosis (SA), and gastrocnemius aponeurosis (GA). Comparisons were made between limbs in both traditional sonographic measures and regional SWS. RESULTS Symptomatic tendons were thicker (10.2 (1.9) vs. 6.8 (1.8) mm; p < 0.001) and had more hyperemia (p = 0.001) and hypoechogenicity (p = 0.002) than the contralateral tendon. Regional SWS in the FT was lower in the symptomatic limb compared to the contralateral limb (11.53 [10.99, 12.07] vs. 10.97 [10.43, 11.51]; p = 0.03). No differences between limbs were found for the SA (p = 0.13) or GA (p = 0.99). CONCLUSIONS Lower SWS was only observed in the FT in AT patients, indicating that alterations in tendon elasticity associated with AT were localized to the FT and did not involve the proximal passive tendon structures. KEY POINTS • Baseline characteristics of a pilot sample of 20 subjects suffering from chronic Achilles tendinopathy showed differences in conventional sonographic measures of tendon thickness, qualitatively assessed hypoechogenicity, hyperemia, and quantitative measures of shear wave speed. • Regional shear wave speeds were lower in the free tendon but not in the proximal regions of the soleus or gastrocnemius aponeuroses in Achilles tendinopathy patients. • Using shear wave imaging to estimate tendon stiffness may prove beneficial for clinical validation studies to address important topics such as return to activity and the effectiveness of rehabilitation protocols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott K Crawford
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Darryl Thelen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Janice M Yakey
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, E3/311, 600 Highland Ave, Madison, WI, 53792, USA
| | - Bryan C Heiderscheit
- Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Badger Athletic Performance Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - John J Wilson
- Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kenneth S Lee
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, E3/311, 600 Highland Ave, Madison, WI, 53792, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Götschi T, Schärer Y, Gennisson JL, Snedeker JG. Investigation of the relationship between tensile viscoelasticity and unloaded ultrasound shear wave measurements in ex vivo tendon. J Biomech 2023; 146:111411. [PMID: 36509025 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2022.111411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mechanical properties of biological tissues are of key importance for proper function and in situ methods for mechanical characterization are sought after in the context of both medical diagnosis as well as understanding of pathophysiological processes. Shear wave elastography (SWE) and accompanying physical modelling methods provide valid estimates of stiffness in quasi-linear viscoelastic, isotropic tissue but suffer from limitations in assessing non-linear viscoelastic or anisotropic material, such as tendon. Indeed, mathematical modelling predicts the longitudinal shear wave velocity to be unaffected by the tensile but rather the shear viscoelasticity. Here, we employ a heuristic experimental testing approach to the problem to assess the most important potential confounders, namely tendon mass density and diameter, and to investigate associations between tendon tensile viscoelasticity with shear wave descriptors. Small oscillatory testing of animal flexor tendons at two baseline stress levels over a large frequency range comprehensively characterized tensile viscoelastic behavior. A broad set of shear wave descriptors was retrieved on the unloaded tendon based on high frame-rate plane wave ultrasound after applying an acoustic deformation impulse. Tensile modulus and strain energy dissipation increased logarithmically and linearly, respectively, with the frequency of the applied strain. Shear wave descriptors were mostly unaffected by tendon diameter but were highly sensitive to tendon mass density. Shear wave group and phase velocity showed no association with tensile elasticity or strain rate-stiffening but did show an association with tensile strain energy dissipation. The longitudinal shear wave velocity may not characterize tensile elasticity but rather tensile viscous properties of transversely isotropic collagenous tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Götschi
- Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland; Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Switzerland.
| | | | - Jean-Luc Gennisson
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, CNRS, CEA, Laboratoire d'Imagerie Biomédicale Multimodale (BioMaps), Service Hospitalier Frédéric Joliot, 4 place du général Leclerc, 91401 ORSAY, France
| | - Jess G Snedeker
- Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland; Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Römer C, Czupajllo J, Zessin E, Fischer T, Wolfarth B, Lerchbaumer MH. Muscle and Tendon Stiffness of the Lower Limb of Professional Adolescent Soccer Athletes Measured Using Shear Wave Elastography. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12102453. [PMID: 36292143 PMCID: PMC9601169 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12102453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While adolescents have specific risk factors for acute and chronic injury, there is a lack of preventive medicine algorithms for this vulnerable group. Shear wave elastography (SWE) is currently mainly used for assessing muscle and tendon stiffness in adult athletes and can diagnose tissue pathologies such as tendinopathy. The aim was to investigate differences in quadriceps tendon and muscle stiffness between adolescent and adult professional soccer players using SWE and identify lateral imbalances in order to improve the knowledge of preventive medicine algorithms for professional adolescent athletes. METHODS Standardized SWE examinations of both lower limb tendons and muscles (the quadriceps tendon (QT) and the vastus medialis (VM) muscle) in the longitudinal plane and relaxed tendon position were performed in 13 healthy adolescent soccer athletes (13-17 years), and a control group of 19 healthy adult professional soccer athletes (18-29 years). RESULTS Adolescent soccer players had lower stiffness values for both the quadriceps tendon (3.11 m/s vs. 3.25 m/s) and the vastus medialis muscle (1.67 m/s vs. 1.71 m/s) than adult athletes. Moreover, QT stiffness in adolescent soccer players was significantly lower on the right side (QT: adult 3.50 m/s (2.73-4.56) vs. adolescent 2.90 m/s (2.61-3.12); p = 0.031). Analysis of the lateral differences revealed softer QT and VM tissue on the right side in over two-thirds of adolescent soccer athletes. Over two-thirds of adults had stiffer QT and VM tissue on the right side. CONCLUSION In adolescent soccer players, the stiffness of the QT and VM muscle measured by SWE is lower in the right leg. SWE of the musculoskeletal system may thus become a relevant diagnostic tool to detect early lateral imbalances as a main risk factor for injury and may thus contribute to the prevention of acute and chronic injury prevention in adolescent athletes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Römer
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Czupajllo
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Enrico Zessin
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Fischer
- Department of Radiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Bernd Wolfarth
- Department of Sports Medicine, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Markus Herbert Lerchbaumer
- Department of Radiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-30-450657084
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Sprague AL, Couppé C, Pohlig RT, Cortes DC, Silbernagel KG. Relationships between tendon structure and clinical impairments in patients with patellar tendinopathy. J Orthop Res 2022; 40:2320-2329. [PMID: 34996130 PMCID: PMC9259765 DOI: 10.1002/jor.25262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The clinical relevance of altered tendon structure in patellar tendinopathy is contested since structural change persists after symptom resolution. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationships between tendon structure and clinical impairments in patellar tendinopathy. In this retrospective, secondary analysis of individuals with patellar tendinopathy (n = 41), tendon structure (thickness, cross-sectional area [CSA], shear modulus, and viscosity), symptom severity, lower extremity function (counter-movement jump [CMJ] height), and quadriceps muscle performance (knee extension force and central activation ratio [CAR]) were recorded for the symptomatic limb. Relationships among structure, symptom severity, lower extremity function, and quadriceps muscle performance were examined using sequential regression models. Adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, and pain levels, there were significant positive relationships for thickness (p < 0.001, β = 0.718) and viscosity (p = 0.006, β = 0.496) with CMJ height. There were significant negative relationships between CSA with both CMJ height (p = 0.001, β = -0.538) and CAR (p = 0.04, β = -0.517). This is the first study to demonstrate relationships between tendon structure and lower extremity function or quadriceps muscle performance in patients with patellar tendinopathy. Clinical significance: Since structural changes persist after symptom resolution, addressing these changes may assist in restoring lower extremity function and quadriceps muscle performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew L. Sprague
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware,
Newark, DE, USA
- Department of Biomechanics and Movement Science, University
of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Pittsburgh,
Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Christian Couppé
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery M, Faculty of Health and
Medical Sciences, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Bispebjerg Hospital and
Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, DK
- Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Bispebjerg
Hospital, Copenhagen, DK
- IOC Research Center Copenhagen Center for Injury Prevention
and Protection of Athlete Health, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, DK
| | - Ryan T. Pohlig
- Biostatistic Core Facility, College of Health Sciences,
University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Daniel C. Cortes
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Penn State
University, State College, PA, USA
| | - Karin Grävare Silbernagel
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware,
Newark, DE, USA
- Department of Biomechanics and Movement Science, University
of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of
Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Guerri G, Palozzo A, Straticò P, Varasano V, Celani G, Di Francesco P, Vignoli M, Petrizzi L. 2D-SWE of the Metacarpophalangeal Joint Capsule in Horses. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9090478. [PMID: 36136694 PMCID: PMC9501397 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9090478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) employs an ultrasound impulse to produce transversely oriented shear waves, which travel through the surrounding tissue according to the stiffness of the tissue itself. The study aimed to assess the reliability of 2D-SWE for evaluating the elastosonographic appearance of the distal attachment of the fetlock joint capsule (DJC) in sound horses and in horses with osteoarthritis (OA) (2). According to a thorough evaluation of metacarpophalangeal joint (MCPJ), adult horses were divided in a sound Group (H) and in OA Group (P). Thereafter, a 2D-SWE of MCPJs was performed. Shear wave velocity (m/sec) and Young’s modulus (kPa) were calculated independently by two operators at each selected ROI. Statistical analysis was performed with R software. (3) Results: 2D-SWE had good–excellent inter-CC and intra-CC in both groups. Differences in m/s and kPa between Groups H and P were found in transverse scans with lower values in Group P. No correlation with age or DJC thickness was found. (4) Conclusions: 2D-SWE was repeatable and reproducible. In Group H, DJC was statistically stiffer than in Group P only in transverse scan. The technique showed poor sensitivity and specificity in differentiating fetlocks affected by OA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Guerri
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Adriana Palozzo
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Paola Straticò
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Vincenzo Varasano
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Gianluca Celani
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Vignoli
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Lucio Petrizzi
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Selcuk Can T, Ozdemir S, Yilmaz BK. Shear-Wave Elastography of Patellar Ligament and Achilles Tendon in Semiprofessional Athletes: Comparing With Nonexercising Individuals. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2022; 41:2237-2246. [PMID: 34862639 DOI: 10.1002/jum.15908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare semiprofessional athletes and nonexercising individuals in terms of p-SWE properties of the patellar ligament and the Achilles tendon. METHODS This case-control study was conducted in University of Health Sciences, Haseki Education and Research Hospital. A total of 58 individuals, with 29 in each group (according to power analysis), were included in the study. All relevant findings, including demographic characteristics, body mass index (BMI), and exercise (km run per week, km/w) were recorded. The MyLab 9 (Esaote, Genova, Italy) device was used for SWE. The QElaXto-p-SWE software was utilized for P-SWE interpretation and analyses. RESULTS The mean age was 47.21 ± 12.16 years (range 22-70). Weight (P = .001) and BMI (P < .001) values were significantly higher in the nonathlete group than in the athlete group. There were no significant differences between groups in terms of age, gender, and height. Median SWE values of bilateral patellar ligaments (P < .001 and P < .001) and bilateral Achilles tendons (P < .001 and P < .001) were significantly higher in the athlete group than in the nonathlete group. CONCLUSIONS We revealed normal p-SWE characteristics for the patellar ligament and Achilles tendon, which are frequently injured in athletes. These scores are important in early detection and follow-up of injuries in athletes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tuba Selcuk Can
- Department of Radiology, Istanbul Haseki Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sevim Ozdemir
- Department of Radiology, Istanbul Haseki Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Behice Kaniye Yilmaz
- Department of Radiology, Istanbul Haseki Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Contreras-Hernandez I, Falla D, Martinez-Valdes E. Neuromuscular and structural tendon adaptations after 6 weeks of either concentric or eccentric exercise in individuals with non-insertional Achilles tendinopathy: protocol for a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058683. [PMID: 35906051 PMCID: PMC9345075 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is limited evidence on the neural strategies employed by the central nervous system to control muscle force in the presence of non-insertional Achilles tendinopathy (NIAT). Additionally, the neuromuscular mechanisms by which exercise may help to resolve tendon pain remain unclear. OBJECTIVE This study aims to first establish changes in the gastrocnemius-soleus motor unit firing properties after applying a training protocol of 6 weeks based on either controlled eccentric or concentric contractions in individuals with NIAT. Second, we want to determine changes in the level of pain and function and mechanical and structural properties of the Achilles tendon after applying the same training protocol. Additionally, we want to compare these variables at baseline between individuals with NIAT and asymptomatic controls. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A total of 26 individuals with chronic (>3 months) NIAT and 13 healthy controls will participate in the study. Individuals with NIAT will be randomised to perform eccentric or concentric training for 6 weeks. Motor unit firing properties of the medial gastrocnemius, lateral gastrocnemius and soleus muscles will be assessed using high-density surface electromyography, as well as Achilles tendon length, cross-sectional area, thickness and stiffness using B-mode ultrasonography and shear wave elastography. Moreover, participants will complete a battery of questionnaires to document their level of pain and function. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval (ERN-20-0604A) for the study was obtained from the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Ethical Review Committee of the University of Birmingham. The results of the study will be published in peer-review journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN46462385.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio Contreras-Hernandez
- Centre of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain (CPR Spine), School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Deborah Falla
- Centre of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain (CPR Spine), School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Eduardo Martinez-Valdes
- Centre of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain (CPR Spine), School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Götschi T, Franchi MV, Schulz N, Fröhlich S, Frey WO, Snedeker JG, Spörri J. Altered regional 3D shear wave velocity patterns in youth competitive alpine skiers suffering from patellar tendon complaints - A prospective case-control study. Eur J Sport Sci 2022; 23:1068-1076. [PMID: 35699187 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2022.2088404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AbstractPatellar tendon (PT) complaints are frequent throughout the population, with increased occurrence in athletes and, particularly, in youth competitive alpine skiers. Timely detection and treatment might improve prospects of recovery. Diagnostic modalities in clinical use to date rely on pain symptoms, manual palpation, and potentially, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); however, MRI-based imaging yields limited sensitivity. Quantitatively measuring the morphological and mechanical properties of PTs by means of B-mode ultrasound and shear wave elastography (SWE), instead, may allow improved diagnosis or even early detection. We performed B-mode scans and three-dimensional ultrasound shear wave velocity (SWV) mapping and MRI of the PT in 106 youth skiers. A prospective one-year survey on health problems combined with clinical assessments served to categorize symptomatic and asymptomatic youth skiers. Skiers suffering from distal or proximal tendon complaints showed lower SWV in the respective tendon region than asymptomatic skiers (p = 0.035 and p = 0.019, respectively). Youth skiers with distal tendon complaints additionally exhibited decreased SWV in the proximal region compared to asymptomatic counterparts (p = 0.020). Cross-validated analysis of retrospective prediction indicated sensitivity and specificity in detecting tendon complaints in the range of 0.606-0.621 and 0.536-0.650, respectively. MRI detected distal tendon complaints with a sensitivity of 0.410 (12/29) but failed to detect any proximal cases. This study agrees with the most recent literature in that SWE holds promise as a valuable adjunct modality for the diagnosis of PT complaints or even the detection of subclinical prestages. However, to evaluate its prospective predictive value, long-term studies are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Götschi
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland.,Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Switzerland.,Sports Medical Research Group, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martino V Franchi
- Sports Medical Research Group, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland.,Institute of Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Stefan Fröhlich
- Sports Medical Research Group, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland.,University Centre for Prevention and Sports Medicine, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Walter O Frey
- Sports Medical Research Group, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland.,University Centre for Prevention and Sports Medicine, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jess G Snedeker
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland.,Institute for Biomechanics, ETH Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jörg Spörri
- Sports Medical Research Group, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland.,University Centre for Prevention and Sports Medicine, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Grävare Silbernagel K, Malliaras P, de Vos RJ, Hanlon S, Molenaar M, Alfredson H, van den Akker-Scheek I, Antflick J, van Ark M, Färnqvist K, Haleem Z, Kaux JF, Kirwan P, Kumar B, Lewis T, Mallows A, Masci L, Morrissey D, Murphy M, Newsham-West R, Norris R, O'Neill S, Peers K, Sancho I, Seymore K, Vallance P, van der Vlist A, Vicenzino B. ICON 2020-International Scientific Tendinopathy Symposium Consensus: A Systematic Review of Outcome Measures Reported in Clinical Trials of Achilles Tendinopathy. Sports Med 2022; 52:613-641. [PMID: 34797533 PMCID: PMC8891092 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-021-01588-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nine core domains for tendinopathy have been identified. For Achilles tendinopathy there is large variation in outcome measures used, and how these fit into the core domains has not been investigated. OBJECTIVE To identify all available outcome measures outcome measures used to assess the clinical phenotype of Achilles tendinopathy in prospective studies and to map the outcomes measures into predefined health-related core domains. DESIGN Systematic review. DATA SOURCES Embase, MEDLINE (Ovid), Web of Science, CINAHL, The Cochrane Library, SPORTDiscus and Google Scholar. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES Clinical diagnosis of Achilles tendinopathy, sample size ≥ ten participants, age ≥ 16 years, and the study design was a randomized or non-randomized clinical trial, observational cohort, single-arm intervention, or case series. RESULTS 9376 studies were initially screened and 307 studies were finally included, totaling 13,248 participants. There were 233 (177 core domain) different outcome measures identified across all domains. For each core domain outcome measures were identified, with a range between 8 and 35 unique outcome measures utilized for each domain. The proportion of studies that included outcomes for predefined core domains ranged from 4% for the psychological factors domain to 72% for the disability domain. CONCLUSION 233 unique outcome measures for Achilles tendinopathy were identified. Most frequently, outcome measures were used within the disability domain. Outcome measures assessing psychological factors were scarcely used. The next step in developing a core outcome set for Achilles tendinopathy is to engage patients, clinicians and researchers to reach consensus on key outcomes measures. PROSPERO REGISTRATION CRD42020156763.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karin Grävare Silbernagel
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, 540 South College Avenue, Newark, DE, 19713, USA.
| | - Peter Malliaras
- Physiotherapy Department, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Science, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Robert-Jan de Vos
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Shawn Hanlon
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, 540 South College Avenue, Newark, DE, 19713, USA
| | - Mitchel Molenaar
- Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Håkan Alfredson
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rehabilitation Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Inge van den Akker-Scheek
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jarrod Antflick
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Mathijs van Ark
- Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health Care Studies, Hanze University of Applied Sciences and Peescentrum, Centre of Expertise Primary Care Groningen (ECEZG), Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Zubair Haleem
- Sports and Exercise Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Arsenal Football Club, London, UK
| | - Jean-Francois Kaux
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine and Sports Traumatology, University and University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Paul Kirwan
- School of Physiotherapy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Bhavesh Kumar
- Institute of Sport Exercise and Health (ISEH), University College London, London, UK
| | - Trevor Lewis
- Aintree University Hospital, Liverpool Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Adrian Mallows
- School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Lorenzo Masci
- Institute of Sport Exercise and Health (ISEH), University College London, London, UK
| | - Dylan Morrissey
- Sports and Exercise Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Myles Murphy
- National School of Nursing, Midwifery, Health Sciences and Physiotherapy, The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA, Australia
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
| | - Richard Newsham-West
- School of Allied Health, Department of Physiotherapy, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Richard Norris
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
- Liverpool University Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Seth O'Neill
- School of Allied Health, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Koen Peers
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Igor Sancho
- Sports and Exercise Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Physiotherapy Department, University of Deusto, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Kayla Seymore
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, 540 South College Avenue, Newark, DE, 19713, USA
| | - Patrick Vallance
- Physiotherapy Department, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Arco van der Vlist
- Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bill Vicenzino
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences: Physiotherapy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Decreasing patellar tendon stiffness during exercise therapy for patellar tendinopathy is associated with better outcome. J Sci Med Sport 2022; 25:372-378. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2022.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
|
24
|
Kuervers EJ, Firminger CR, Edwards WB. Effect of Knee Angle and Quadriceps Muscle Force on Shear-Wave Elastography Measurements at the Patellar Tendon. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2021; 47:2167-2175. [PMID: 34001405 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2021.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Shear-wave elastography (SWE) is a non-invasive imaging technique that provides estimates of tissue stiffness via shear-wave speed measurements. No standardized protocol currently exists for SWE of the patellar tendon, which may be influenced by knee angle and quadriceps muscle force. In this study, the reliability of SWE in cadaveric patellar tendons was examined at three knee angles (0°, 30° and 60°) and three quadriceps muscle forces (0, 50 and 100 N). Shear-wave speed was significantly higher at a knee angle of 60° than at 0° or 30° (increases of 7% and 9%, respectively), and when the quadriceps muscle force was greater than or equal to 50 N (increase of 15%). SWE of the patellar tendon displayed excellent repeatability regardless of knee angle as long as no quadriceps force was generated (intra-class correlation coefficient ≥0.91). This research illustrates the importance of controlling knee angle and quadriceps force for consistency and comparison of SWE results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Kuervers
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Colin R Firminger
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - W Brent Edwards
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Alghamdi NH, Pohlig RT, Lundberg M, Silbernagel KG. The Impact of the Degree of Kinesiophobia on Recovery in Patients With Achilles Tendinopathy. Phys Ther 2021; 101:6324957. [PMID: 34289066 PMCID: PMC8801001 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzab178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Kinesiophobia has been proposed to influence recovery in individuals with Achilles tendinopathy. However, whether there are differences in outcomes in individuals with different levels of kinesiophobia is unknown. The purpose of this study was to compare the characteristics of patients at baseline and recovery over time in individuals with Achilles tendinopathy and various levels of kinesiophobia. METHODS This study was a secondary analysis of a prospective observational cohort study of 59 individuals with Achilles tendinopathy. The participants were divided into 3 groups on the basis of scores on the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK) (those with low TSK scores [≤33; low TSK group], those with medium TSK scores [34-41; medium TSK group], and those with high TSK scores [≥42; high TSK group]). All participants were evaluated with self-reported outcomes, clinical evaluation, tendon morphology, viscoelastic property measurements, and a calf muscle endurance test at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. No treatment was provided throughout the study period. RESULTS There were 16 participants (8 women) in the low TSK group (age = 51.9 [SD = 15.3] years, body mass index [BMI] = 24.3 [22.3-25.4]), 28 participants (13 women) in the medium TSK group (age = 52.7 [SD = 15.2] years, BMI = 26.4 [22.5-30.8]), and 15 participants (8 women) in the high TSK group (age = 61.1 [SD = 11.1] years, BMI = 28.1 [25.2-33.6]). Among the groups at baseline, the high TSK group had significantly greater BMI and symptom severity and lower quality of life. All groups showed significant improvement over time for all outcomes except tendon viscoelastic properties and tendon thickening when there was an adjustment for baseline BMI. The high and medium TSK groups saw decreases in kinesiophobia at 6 months, but there was no change for the low TSK group. CONCLUSION Despite the high TSK group having the highest BMI and the worse symptom severity and quality of life at baseline, members of this group showed improvements in all of the outcome domains similar to those of the other groups over 12 months. IMPACT Evaluating the degree of kinesiophobia in individuals with Achilles tendinopathy might be of benefit for understanding how they are affected by the injury. However, the degree of kinesiophobia at baseline does not seem to affect recovery; this finding could be due to the patients receiving education about the injury and expectations of recovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nabeel Hamdan Alghamdi
- Department of Physical Therapy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia,Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Ryan T Pohlig
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Mari Lundberg
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden,Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Sophiahemmet University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Yu M, Wu J, Hou J, Tang Y, Li F, Zhou C, Li Q, Long Y, Zhang C, Zhang Y, Alike Y, Ou B, Yang R. Young's Modulus of Bilateral Infraspinatus Tendon Measured in Different Postures by Shear Wave Elastography Before and After Exercise. Orthop Surg 2021; 13:1570-1578. [PMID: 34109747 PMCID: PMC8313147 DOI: 10.1111/os.12989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the Young's modulus value of infraspinatus tendons using shear wave elastography (SWE) technique in normal adults, and to analyze the influence of gender, postures, exercise, and dominant side on Young's modulus of infraspinatus tendons. Methods This is a prospective cross‐sectional study. From January 2019 to July 2020, 14 healthy subjects were identified, including seven males and seven females aged between 24 to 34, with a mean age of 27.67 ± 3.08 years. The Young's modulus of their infraspinatus tendons was measured by two operators using SWE in neutral and maximum external rotation positions of both sides before exercise and the dominant side after exercise. The Young's modulus values in different sexes, different postures, before vs after exercise, and dominant vs non‐dominant side were statistically analyzed. Results All 14 subjects completed the data collection process. The mean Young's modulus values of infraspinatus tendon for dominant sides in neutral position were 33.04 ± 3.01 kPa for males and 28.76 ± 3.09 kPa for females. And for non‐dominant sides in the neutral position, the values were 33.02 ± 2.38 kPa for males and 28.86 ± 2.47 kPa for females. In the maximum external rotation position, the values for dominant sides were 50.19 ± 4.86 kPa for males and 42.79 ± 4.44 kPa for females, and for non‐dominant sides were 50.95 ± 3.24 kPa for males and 42.42 ± 3.66 kPa for females. After exercise, the mean Young's modulus values of infraspinatus tendon for dominant sides in neutral position were 54.56 ± 3.76 kPa for males and 46.66 ± 5.99 kPa for females. And for the maximum external rotation position, the values were 59.13 ± 3.78 kPa for males and 54.49 ± 5.67 kPa for females. The Young's modulus of infraspinatus tendon in the neutral and maximum external rotation positions showed statistically significant differences in males and females, as well as before and after exercise (P < 0.05). However, the difference in Young's modulus between the dominant and non‐dominant sides was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Intergroup reliability between both operators was excellent (ICC > 0.85). Conclusion There are gender‐related differences and post‐exercise increase in Young's modulus, yet such a difference cannot be witnessed between the dominant and non‐dominant sides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Menglei Yu
- Department of Sport Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiayi Wu
- Department of Ultrasound, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingyi Hou
- Department of Sport Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yiyong Tang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fangqi Li
- Department of Sport Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Qingyue Li
- Department of Sport Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Long
- Department of Sport Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Congda Zhang
- Department of Sport Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuanhao Zhang
- Department of Sport Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yamuhanmode Alike
- Department of Sport Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bing Ou
- Department of Ultrasound, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui Yang
- Department of Sport Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Gatz M, Bode D, Betsch M, Quack V, Tingart M, Kuhl C, Schrading S, Dirrichs T. Multimodal Ultrasound Versus MRI for the Diagnosis and Monitoring of Achilles Tendinopathy: A Prospective Longitudinal Study. Orthop J Sports Med 2021; 9:23259671211006826. [PMID: 33912619 PMCID: PMC8047827 DOI: 10.1177/23259671211006826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The diagnosis and monitoring of Achilles tendinopathy with imaging are challenging. There is a lack of studies comparing the diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), brightness mode ultrasound (B-mode), and power Doppler ultrasound with recent technologies such as ultrasound tissue characterization (UTC) and shear wave elastography (SWE). Purpose: To assess whether SWE and UTC, which offer quantitative values, show a superior diagnostic accuracy and capacity to detect structural improvement in Achilles tendinopathy compared with MRI, B-mode, or power Doppler. Study Design: Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2. Methods: Patients with insertional (n = 28) and midportion (n = 38) Achilles tendinopathy were evaluated at baseline and 6-month follow-up using MRI, B-mode, power Doppler, SWE, and UTC. Asymptomatic controls (n = 37) were evaluated at T0. Diagnostic accuracy was analyzed based on a quantitative receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis with quantitative cutoff values (anteroposterior diameter, Öhberg score, UTC echo type, Young modulus) and by semiquantitative Likert scale–based assessment of experienced physicians. Results: For diagnosing insertional Achilles tendinopathy, semiquantitative MRI and power Doppler were most favorable (diagnostic accuracy, 95%), while the cross-sectional area of MRI revealed 89% accuracy in the ROC analyses (area under the curve [AUC], 0.911; P < .001). For diagnosing midportion Achilles tendinopathy, semiquantitative MRI and B-mode were most favorable (diagnostic accuracy, 87%), while UTC echo types 3 and 4 revealed 86% and 87% accuracy, respectively, in the ROC analyses (AUC, 0.911 and 0.941, respectively; P < .001). However, for quantitative and semiquantitative evaluation of diagnostic accuracy in both insertional and midportion Achilles tendinopathy, there was no significant difference in favor of one imaging modality over the others. Compared with baseline, only SWE showed a significant change at the 6-month follow-up (P = .003-.035), but there were only fair to poor monitoring accuracies of 71% (insertion) and 60% (midportion). However, compared with the other modalities, the monitoring accuracy of SWE was significantly higher (P = .002-.039). Conclusion: There was no statistically significant difference in favor of one imaging modality over the others, but MRI revealed the highest overall diagnostic accuracy for the diagnosis of both insertional and midportion Achilles tendinopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Gatz
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Daniela Bode
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany.,Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Marcel Betsch
- University of Toronto Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Program (UTOSM), Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Valentin Quack
- Department for Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Markus Tingart
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Christiane Kuhl
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Simone Schrading
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany.,Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Kantonsspital Luzern, Luzern, Switzerland
| | - Timm Dirrichs
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Evaluation of Current Symptoms in Postoperative Achilles Tendons: A Multimodal Ultrasound Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9030288. [PMID: 33807841 PMCID: PMC8000856 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9030288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: It is unknown which imaging parameters are associated with clinical persistent symptoms in postoperative Achilles tendons. This study used B-Mode, Power Doppler (PD-US), Ultrasound Tissue Characterization (UTC) and Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) to investigate which imaging parameters are associated with persistent symptoms in postoperative Achilles tendon tissue. (2) Methods: Retrospective, cross-sectional, multimodal imaging study. Based on the VISA-A score, postoperative tendons were assigned to two groups: 1. asymptomatic (VISA-A ≥ 90, n = 18); 2. symptomatic (VISA-A < 90, n = 10). The following imaging parameters were analyzed: UTC (echo type I, II, III, IV), B-Mode (diameter, cross sectional area, calcification, fiber irregularity), PD-US (Öhberg score) and SWE (SWE 3 mm, SWE area) using a t-test and a Mann–Whitney U test. (3) Results: SWE and PD-US showed significantly reduced elasticity and increased neovascularization in symptomatic tendons (SWE 3 mm p = 0.031, SWE area p = 0.046, Öhberg score p < 0.001). The only significant correlation between imaging parameters and the VISA-A score was assessed for SWE 3 mm (r = 0.378; p = 0.047) and the Öhberg score (r = −0.737; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Symptomatic postoperative Achilles tendons showed increased neovascularization and lower SWE values than asymptomatic ones. Future studies should examine the diagnostic accuracy of PD-US and SWE in detecting current symptoms in postoperative Achilles tendons.
Collapse
|
29
|
Creteur V, De Angelis R, Absil J, Kyriakidis T, Madani A. Sonographic and radiographic evaluation of the extensor tendons in early postoperative period after total knee arthroplasty. Skeletal Radiol 2021; 50:485-494. [PMID: 32803377 DOI: 10.1007/s00256-020-03574-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To prospectively assess the early changes in the quadriceps and patellar tendons before and after total knee arthroplasty using ultrasound, shear wave elastography, and X-rays. MATERIALS AND METHODS Radiographs, ultrasound, and shear wave elastography were performed on 23 patients (16 women; aged 51-85, mean 66 ± 9 years) before and after surgery at 6 weeks and on 11 patients at 3 months. Patellar position and patellar tendon lengths were evaluated by radiography; joint effusion or synovitis, quadriceps and patellar tendon lengths, and thicknesses, echogenicity, vascularity, and stiffness were assessed with ultrasound and shear wave elastography. RESULTS In the early postoperative period, 87% of the patients had joint effusion, and 43% had signs of synovitis. There was a significant thickening of the quadriceps tendon in 51.5% (p < .0001) and of the patellar tendon in 93.8% (p < .0001) of patients with a significant shortening of the patellar tendon in 7.8% (p < .0001). A hypoechoic defect on the medial aspect of the quadriceps tendon was found in 87% of the patients. There was a significant increase in Young's modulus in the quadriceps tendon (p = .0006) but not in the patellar tendon. CONCLUSION The following should not be considered to be pathological findings at early postoperative imaging: joint effusion, synovitis, increasing of stiffness and thickening of quadriceps tendons by more than 50%, thickening of patellar tendon by more than 90%, focal defect through the medial aspect of the quadriceps tendon, and shortening of the patellar tendon by 8%.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viviane Creteur
- Department of Radiology, Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 808, Route de Lennik, 1070, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Riccardo De Angelis
- Department of Radiology, Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 808, Route de Lennik, 1070, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Julie Absil
- Department of Radiology, Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 808, Route de Lennik, 1070, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Theofylaktos Kyriakidis
- Department of Radiology, Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 808, Route de Lennik, 1070, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Afarine Madani
- Department of Radiology, Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 808, Route de Lennik, 1070, Brussels, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Gatz M, Schweda S, Betsch M, Dirrichs T, de la Fuente M, Reinhardt N, Quack V. Line- and Point-Focused Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy for Achilles Tendinopathy: A Placebo-Controlled RCT Study. Sports Health 2021; 13:511-518. [PMID: 33586526 PMCID: PMC8404720 DOI: 10.1177/1941738121991791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is a widely considered treatment option for Achilles tendinopathy. Line-focused ESWT is a novel technique treating a larger tendon area than point-focused ESWT. Monitoring capacities of clinical symptoms with ultrasound under ESWT treatment are unknown. Hypothesis: Point- and line-focused ESWT have a superior outcome than placebo ESWT. ESWT leads to morphological tendon changes detectable with ultrasound. Study Design: Single-blinded placebo-controlled randomized contolled trial. Level of Evidence: Level 1. Methods: The study was conducted in 3 cohorts, namely ESWT point (n = 21), ESWT line (n = 24), and ESWT placebo (n = 21). Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment–Achilles (VISA-A) score was measured before the intervention (T0), after 6 weeks (T1), and after 24 weeks (T2). All cohorts performed daily physiotherapy for 24 weeks and received 4 sessions of point-focused, line-focused, or placebo ESWT in the first 6 weeks. Ultrasound was performed with B-mode, power Doppler, shear wave elastography (SWE) at T0 and T2 and with ultrasound tissue characterization (UTC) at T0, T1, and T2. Data were analyzed with a mixed analysis of variance and t test. Results: There was a significant VISA-A improvement over time for all groups (P < 0.001). ESWT point had the strongest VISA-A score improvement +23 (ESWT line: +18; ESWT placebo: +15), but there was no significant interaction between time and any of the groups: F(4, 116) = 1.393; P = 0.24. UTC, power Doppler, and B-mode could not show significant alterations over time. SWE revealed a significant increase of elastic properties for ESWT point in the insertion (t = −3.113, P = 0.03) and midportion (t = −2.627, P = 0.02) over time. Conclusion: There is a significant VISA-A score improvement for all study groups without a statistically significant benefit for ESWT point or ESWT line compared with ESWT placebo. Tendon adaptation could only be detected with SWE for ESWT point. Clinical Relevance: The present study could not detect any statistically relevant effect of ESWT compared to placebo. SWE is able to demonstrate tendon adaptation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Gatz
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Aachen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Schweda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Aachen, Germany
| | - Marcel Betsch
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Aachen, Germany
| | - Timm Dirrichs
- Department of Radiology, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Nina Reinhardt
- Chair of Medical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Valentin Quack
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, RWTH Aachen University Clinic, Aachen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Gatz M, Betsch M, Quack V, Bejder L, Schrading S, Tingart M, Dirrichs T. Shear wave elastography for treatment monitoring of plantar fasciitis. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2020; 60:1137-1147. [PMID: 32955840 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.20.10702-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain. Monitoring therapy effects is challenging with conventional B-mode ultrasound. Shear wave elastography (SWE) provides important diagnostic information beyond B-mode, with typically lower tissue stiffness in symptomatic plantar fascia. Up to now little is known about SWE features for therapy monitoring in plantar fasciitis. We evaluated the clinical effects of a 3-month physical therapy based treatment and its influence on B-mode and SWE ultrasound findings in patients suffering from plantar fasciitis, correlating ultrasound findings to score-based symptom development. METHODS Prospective, IRB-approved clinical study in plantar fasciitis patients undergoing a 3-month physical therapy based treatment. Measurement time points were before (T0), after 1 (T1) and 3 (T2) months of treatment, consisting of clinical orthopedic (FFI, AOFAS-Score) and multimodal radiologic sonographic examinations (B-mode/SWE) using a high-resolution linear 18-MHz probe. RESULTS A total of 33 patients with 43 symptomatic plantar fascia were included. We found a significant (P<0.001) clinical score improvement (AOFAS +14, FFI-Pain -21, FFI-Function -18) between T0 and T2. Mean initial thickness (T0) of symptomatic plantar fascia was 4.2 (±1.2) mm, compared to 3.2 (±0.7) mm at the asymptomatic contralateral side (P<0.001). No significant thickness changes were seen at T1 (4.2±1.1 mm) and T2 (4.5±1.3 mm), even though clinical scores improved significantly. Mean initial stiffness (T0) of symptomatic plantar fascia was 59.57 (±43.3) kPa, compared to 83.23 (±47.3) kPa at the asymptomatic contralateral side (P<0.001). In contrast to B-mode ultrasound, SWE values increased significantly between T0 (59.6±43.3 kPa), T1 (82.6±47.3 kPa) and T2 (102.5±47.2 kPa) (P<0.001-0.009), with positive correlations for AOFAS/FFI-Pain/Function scores (r=0.285-0.473, P<0.001-0.002). CONCLUSIONS A physical therapy based treatment relieves plantar fasciitis symptoms during a 3-month period. In line with symptom reduction, stiffness (Young's-moduli) of plantar fascia increased significantly, while B-mode ultrasound revealed no measurable changes during the healing process. Shear wave elastography was able to quantify plantar fascia pathologies and their recovery under therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Gatz
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Marcel Betsch
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Valentin Quack
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ljudmila Bejder
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Simone Schrading
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Markus Tingart
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Timm Dirrichs
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany -
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Lalumiere M, Larivière C, Nadeau MJ, Paquette P, Lamontagne M, Desmeules F, Gagnon DH. Proposing a Minimal Data Set of Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Imaging Biomarkers to Inform Clinical Practice: An Analysis Founded on the Achilles Tendon. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2020; 46:2222-2235. [PMID: 32527592 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2020.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Tendon integrity can be described using a wide range of biomarkers via specialized analysis software for images recorded by musculoskeletal ultrasonography. This study proposes a minimal biomarker data set to characterize Achilles tendon ultrasound images and to differentiate between symptomatic and asymptomatic Achilles tendon images. Forty-one individuals with unilateral Achilles tendinopathy and 35 healthy controls had their Achilles tendon images recorded bilaterally by ultrasonography in the longitudinal and transverse planes. A set of 22 biomarkers, organized around three dimensions (geometric, composition and texture), were computed in each plane. A symmetry index, reflecting relative side differences, was compared between groups and analyzed through principal component analysis to isolate biomarkers that best explained data variance. A specific minimal data set was identified by linear regression in the longitudinal (mean thickness, echogenicity, variance and homogeneity at 90°) and transverse (mean thickness, echogenicity and mean homogeneity) planes to characterize and differentiate Achilles tendon integrity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Lalumiere
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation (CRIR), Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Christian Larivière
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation (CRIR), Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST), Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Philippe Paquette
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation (CRIR), Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Martin Lamontagne
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - François Desmeules
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Centre de recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont (CRHMR), Montreal, Canada
| | - Dany H Gagnon
- Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation (CRIR), Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ciloglu O, Görgülü FF. Evaluation of a Torn Achilles Tendon After Surgical Repair: An Ultrasound and Elastographic Study With 1-Year Follow-up. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2020; 39:1263-1269. [PMID: 31943316 DOI: 10.1002/jum.15214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate the healing process of a torn Achilles tendon after surgical repair using ultrasound elastography. METHODS This study was set in a prospective case-control analytic design. Patients who underwent surgical repair of complete rupture of the Achilles tendon were enrolled, together with a control group. The data for the patient group were assessed at 12, 24, and 48 weeks postoperatively. All patients were evaluated by the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Scale. Values for the thickness, the cross-sectional area, strain elastography, and shear wave elastography (SWE) were compared on a high-resolution Doppler ultrasound system. RESULTS The percentage of the red-to-yellow code was the highest (57.7%) at the 12th-week evaluation, and the percentage of the green code was the highest at the 24th-week (53.8%) and 48th-week (69.2%) evaluations. With respect to color codes on the nonruptured side, the percentage of green increased and the percentage of blue decreased over time (P = .002). The SWE values increased over time on the ruptured side and decreased on the nonruptured side. There was a positive correlation (moderate) between the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Scale and SWE values at the 24th- and 48th-week evaluations. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study demonstrated that the Achilles tendon seems to become stiffer with the healing process. Ultrasound elastography can provide structural information about the healing process of the Achilles tendon after surgical repair and can quantify findings for follow-up.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Osman Ciloglu
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, University of Health Sciences, Adana Health Practice and Research Center, Adana, Turkey
| | - Fatma Feride Görgülü
- Department of Radiology, University of Health Sciences, Adana Health Practice and Research Center, Adana, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Importance of shear-wave elastography in prediction of Achilles tendon rupture. INTERNATIONAL ORTHOPAEDICS 2020; 45:1043-1047. [PMID: 32613301 DOI: 10.1007/s00264-020-04670-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE It was demonstrated that about 6% of patients with a ruptured Achilles tendon experience the rupture of contralateral tendon in the future; the aim of this study was to estimate the risk for rupture of contralateral tendon in patients who underwent surgical reconstruction of ruptured Achilles tendon by using subjective questionnaires and shear-wave elastography. METHODS Twenty-four patients who underwent surgical repair of the ruptured Achilles tendon and twelve age-matched healthy controls were examined with ultrasound SWE. Functional outcomes were assessed with American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scoring system and subjective rating system which we introduced and validated. RESULTS The elasticity of injured tendon was markedly decreased (by 42%) compared to the contralateral tendon of the patient, as expected. Both AOFAS score and our novel subjective assessment scale positively correlate with ultrasound SWE values in ruptured Achilles tendons. The elasticity of contralateral Achilles tendons in patients was 23% lower than among healthy individuals. CONCLUSION Irrespective of the lack of difference in the subjective feeling assessed by AOFAS, the contralateral tendon in the patients with reconstructed Achilles tendon has significantly lower stiffness than healthy individuals. Therefore, contralateral tendons in patients who suffered from rupture are more prone to future ruptures.
Collapse
|
35
|
Gatz M, Betsch M, Bode D, Schweda S, Dirrichs T, Migliorini F, Tingart M, Quack V. Intra individual comparison of unilateral Achilles tendinopathy using B-mode, power Doppler, ultrasound tissue characterization and shear wave elastography. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2020; 60:1462-1469. [PMID: 32586084 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.20.11031-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The asymptomatic side of unilateral Achilles tendinopathy (AT) is used as a reference in ultrasound. However, this procedure has not been evaluated in a comparative analysis using B-mode (B-US), power Doppler (PD-US), ultrasound tissue characterization (UTC) and shear wave elastography (SWE). METHODS Retrospective cross-sectional study. Tendons were assigned to 3 groups: 1) asymptomatic side of unilateral AT N.=55; 2) symptomatic side of unilateral AT N.=55; and 3) young reference group N.=29. The following parameters were analyzed separately for the insertion and midportion: UTC (echo type I, II, III, IV), B-US (diameter, cross sectional area), PD-US (Öhberg Score) and SWE (SWE 3 mm, SWE area) using a Wilcoxon Test (group 1 vs. 2) and a Kruskal-Wallis Test (group 1 vs. 2 vs. 3). RESULTS The Wilcoxon Test making an isolated comparison between group 1 vs. 2 revealed a significant difference for all parameters of B-US, PD-US, UTC and SWE (P<0.001, P=0.042), except for the insertion in UTC. However, in the overall analysis including the reference group, the Kruskal-Wallis Test could only detect a significant difference between group 1 vs. 2 for PD-US (P<0.001). Thus, group 1 and 2 had significantly more pathological parameters in B-US (P<0.001, P=0.027), SWE (P<0.001, P=0.008) and UTC (type I, III, IV P<0.001) in both, insertion and midportion, compared to the reference group. CONCLUSIONS The asymptomatic side of unilateral AT seems to show subclinical tendons alterations in B-US, SWE and UTC in comparison to a young and healthy control group. The asymptomatic side of unilateral AT especially with detectable neovascularization might be at risk for future symptoms. Further studies must examine whether the asymptomatic side can still serve as a reference for intra individual comparison in clinical evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Gatz
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany -
| | - Marcel Betsch
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Daniela Bode
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany.,Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Schweda
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Timm Dirrichs
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Filippo Migliorini
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Markus Tingart
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Valentin Quack
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Quack V, Betsch M, Hellmann J, Eschweiler J, Schrading S, Gatz M, Rath B, Tingart M, Laubach M, Kuhl CK, Dirrichs T. Evaluation of Postoperative Changes in Patellar and Quadriceps Tendons after Total Knee Arthroplasty-A Comprehensive Analysis by Shear Wave Elastography, Power Doppler and B-mode Ultrasound. Acad Radiol 2020; 27:e148-e157. [PMID: 31526688 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2019.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES Up to now, the diagnosis of tendinopathies is based on conventional B-mode-ultrasound (B-US), Power Doppler-ultrasound (PD-US), and magnetic resonance imaging. In the past decade, Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) has been introduced in tendon imaging, for example in athletes or patients suffering from tendinopathy. SWE allows real-time quantification of tissue stiffness, and, by this, the assessment of the mechanical properties of a tendon and its changes during acute disease and tendon healing. So far there are no ultrasound-based studies that have evaluated postoperative tendon changes, anatomical and mechanical properties and tendon healing of the patellar, and quadriceps tendon following Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA). The purpose of this prospective study was two-fold: first to analyze morphologic, vascular, and mechanical properties of patellar and quadriceps tendons in patients following TKA; and, second to evaluate possible changes thereof and their visibility in the course of time. MATERIALS AND METHODS Observational cross-sectional, IRB-approved study in 63 postoperative patients with a total of 76 total knee arthroplasties (50 unilateral, 13 bilateral) and 50 nonoperated knees for comparison, resulting in 152 postoperative patellar- and quadriceps and 100 nonoperated patellar- and quadriceps-tendons for comparative analysis. For further examination, we divided the 63 patients into two groups according to the duration since surgery (group A < 24 months; group B > 24 months). All patients completed a standardized questionnaire, furthermore the Knee Society score and the Knee Society function score. The amount of experienced pain was assessed using the ordinal numeric rating scale and the presence of anterior knee pain was examined. Subsequently every participant underwent a standardized multimodal ultrasound protocol consisting of B-US, PD-US, and SWE of the left and right patellar and quadriceps tendons. RESULTS Using the different US-modalities, operated patellar, and quadriceps tendons (n = 152) were significantly more frequent classified as pathological (B-US) (p < 0.001), the mean Ohberg score was significantly higher (PD-US) (p < 0.001), and the tendons were significantly softer (SWE) than their nonoperated counterparts (n = 100). Mean SWE-value of postoperative patellar tendons was 45.66 ± 14.84 kPa versus 60.08 ± 19.13 kPa in nonoperated knees (p < 0.001). Mean SWE-value of postoperative quadriceps tendons was 35.73 ± 15.66 kPa versus 52.69 ± 16.20 kPa in nonoperated knees (p < 0.001). Comparing the two postoperative groups (group A and B), we recognized a significant decrease of pathologically classified patellar and quadriceps tendons (B-US and PD-US) in group B. The early postoperatively reduced SWE values slightly increased during the course of time. CONCLUSION After TKA, patellar, and quadriceps tendons show significant measurable alterations in B-US, PD-US, and SWE. Especially a significant decrease of tendon stiffness in operated knees, as assessed by SWE, might be a surrogate marker for changed mechanical properties. These alterations improve, the longer ago the surgery was. The quantitative information obtained by SWE could be of particular interest in follow-up and therapy monitoring after TKA. Knowledge about tendon stiffness and it's varieties in different population groups (e.g. athletes, elderly, postoperative patients) is crucial to sonographically rate a tendon as "healthy" or "diseased."
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Quack
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Marcel Betsch
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Julian Hellmann
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jörg Eschweiler
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Simone Schrading
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstraße 30, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Matthias Gatz
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Björn Rath
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Markus Tingart
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Markus Laubach
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Christiane K Kuhl
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstraße 30, Aachen 52074, Germany
| | - Timm Dirrichs
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstraße 30, Aachen 52074, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Silbernagel KG, Hanlon S, Sprague A. Current Clinical Concepts: Conservative Management of Achilles Tendinopathy. J Athl Train 2020; 55:438-447. [PMID: 32267723 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-356-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Achilles tendinopathy is a painful overuse injury that is extremely common in athletes, especially those who participate in running and jumping sports. In addition to pain, Achilles tendinopathy is accompanied by alterations in the tendon's structure and mechanical properties, altered lower extremity function, and fear of movement. Cumulatively, these impairments limit sport participation and performance. A thorough evaluation and comprehensive treatment plan, centered on progressive tendon loading, is required to ensure full recovery of tendon health and to minimize the risk of reinjury. In this review, we will provide an update on the evidence-based evaluation, outcome assessment, treatment, and return-to-sport planning for Achilles tendinopathy. Furthermore, we will provide the strength of evidence for these recommendations using the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Shawn Hanlon
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark
| | - Andrew Sprague
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Gatz M, Betsch M, Dirrichs T, Schrading S, Tingart M, Michalik R, Quack V. Eccentric and Isometric Exercises in Achilles Tendinopathy Evaluated by the VISA-A Score and Shear Wave Elastography. Sports Health 2020; 12:373-381. [PMID: 32003647 DOI: 10.1177/1941738119893996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Apart from eccentric exercises (EE), isometric exercises (ISO) might be a treatment option for Achilles tendinopathy. Shear wave elastography (SWE) provides information for diagnosis and for monitoring tissue elasticity, which is altered in symptomatic tendons. HYPOTHESIS Isometric exercises will have a beneficial effect on patients' outcome scores. Based on SWE, insertional and midportion tendon parts will differ in their elastic properties according to current symptoms. STUDY DESIGN Randomized clinical trial. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level 2. METHODS Group 1 (EE; n = 20; 12 males, 8 females; mean age, 52 ± 8.98 years) and group 2 (EE + ISO; n = 22; 15 males, 7 females; mean age, 47 ± 15.11 years) performed exercises for 3 months. Measurement points were before exercises were initiated as well as after 1 and 3 months using the Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) score, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score, and SWE (insertion and midportion). RESULTS Both groups improved significantly, but there were no significant interindividual differences (VISA-A; P = 0.362) between group 1 (n = 15; +15 VISA-A) and group 2 (n = 15; +15 VISA-A). The symptomatic insertion (symptomatic, 136.89 kPa; asymptomatic, 174.68 kPa; P = 0.045) and the symptomatic midportion of the Achilles tendon (symptomatic, 184.40 kPa; asymptomatic, 215.41 kPa; P = 0.039) had significantly lower Young modulus compared with the asymptomatic tendons. The midportion location had significantly higher Young modulus than the insertional part of the tendon (P = 0.005). CONCLUSION Isometric exercises do not have additional benefit when combined with eccentric exercises, as assessed over a 3-month intervention period. SWE is able to distinguish between insertional and midportion tendon parts in a symptomatic and asymptomatic state. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The present study shows no additional effect of ISO when added to baseline EE in treating Achilles tendinopathy. Different elastic properties of the insertional and midportion tendon have to be taken into consideration when rating a tendon as pathologic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Gatz
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Marcel Betsch
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Timm Dirrichs
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Simone Schrading
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Markus Tingart
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Roman Michalik
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Valentin Quack
- Department of Orthopedics, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Regional Elastic Properties of the Achilles Tendon Is Heterogeneously Influenced by Individual Muscle of the Gastrocnemius. Appl Bionics Biomech 2019; 2019:8452717. [PMID: 31781292 PMCID: PMC6874961 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8452717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Anatomical studies and the mechanical property studies showed that there is a strong correlation between Achilles tendon (AT) elasticity and individual gastrocnemius muscle (the medial head of gastrocnemius (MG) and the lateral head of gastrocnemius (LG)) elasticity. Limited ankle dorsiflexion range of motion has been correlated with decreased flexibility of the MG/LG/AT complex. However, no studies have been conducted to examine the exact correlation between the Achilles tendon and the individual muscle of the gastrocnemius. Purposes The purposes of the present study were (1) to evaluate intra- and interoperator reliabilities of elastic property measurements in the gastrocnemius muscle-Achilles tendon complex by using the shear wave elastography (SWE) and (2) to examine the correlation between the regional elastic properties of the AT and the individual muscle of the gastrocnemius. Methods Twenty healthy subjects (mean age: 22.50 (3.02) years) were recruited in this study. The elastic properties of the AT and the individual muscle of the gastrocnemius were quantified using the SWE. Findings The SWE has comparatively high reliability in quantifying the elastic properties of the muscle-tendon range from good to excellent. The intraoperator ICC of the gastrocnemius muscle-Achilles tendon complex was 0.77 to 0.95, while the interoperator ICC was 0.76 to 0.94. The minimal detectable change (MDC) of the muscle was 1.72 kPa, while the AT was 32.90 kPa. A significant correlation was found between the elastic modulus of AT and the elastic modulus of the MG (r = 0.668 and p = 0.001 at the relaxing position and r = 0.481 and p = 0.032 at the neutral position). Conclusions The SWE has the potential to assess localized changes in muscle-tendon elastic properties, provide more intuitive relations between elastic properties of the muscle tendon and function, and evaluate the therapeutic effect of the muscle tendon. A significant correlation between the AT and the MG was found, and it may provide a new treatment idea (targeted to the tight muscle heads) for the clinical setting to treat subjects with AT disorders.
Collapse
|
40
|
Transcranial Shear Wave Elastography of Neonatal and Infant Brains for Quantitative Evaluation of Increased Intracranial Pressure. Invest Radiol 2019; 54:719-727. [DOI: 10.1097/rli.0000000000000602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
41
|
Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) of Asymptomatic Achilles Tendons: A Comparison Between Semiprofessional Athletes and the Nonathletic General Population. Acad Radiol 2019; 26:1345-1351. [PMID: 30655054 DOI: 10.1016/j.acra.2018.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES It has been shown that Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) is a useful tool to evaluate tendon stiffness, e.g. in diagnosing tendinopathies, as diseased or injured tendons are intra-individually softer than healthy ones. But reference values between different population groups are still missing. The purpose of this prospective clinical study was two-fold: First, to comparatively analyse Achilles tendon stiffness between asymptomatic semiprofessional athletes and an asymptomatic nonathletic control group. Second, to evaluate specificity, with which SWE is able to predict absence of clinical symptoms in asymptomatic individuals, compared to B-mode-Ultrasound (B-US) and Power Doppler-Ultrasound (PD-US). MATERIALS AND METHODS Prospective clinical study in 68 asymptomatic healthy participants, 33 (48.5%) of them semiprofessional athletes with at least five training units of running per week and 35 (51.5 %) normal nonathletic persons, asymptomatic respectively. A consecutive of 136 Achilles tendons underwent standardized multi-modal ultrasound, consisting of B-US, PD-US, and SWE (Aixplorer, Supersonic). Pathologic structural changes at B-US, increased Doppler signal PD-US and quantitative ROI-based-analysis of tendon elasticity in kilopascal (kPa) were performed in all participants. Tendon stiffness was compared intra-individually between right and left side in each participant. SWE values between athletes and nonathletes were compared by using student's t test (p < 0.05). To evaluate the ability of different sonographic modalities in predicting "absence of clinical symptoms", specificities of B-US, PD-US, and SWE were calculated and compared among each other. RESULTS Mean SWE-value for Achilles tendon was 183.8 kPa (± 98 kPa) in athletes and 103.6 kPa (± 30.5 kPa) in the nonathletic control group. The difference between athletes and non-athletes was statistically significant (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found intra-individually between right and left side: athlete mean: right: 187.2 kPa (SD ± 45.2 kPa)/left: 180.4 kPa (SD 39.7 kPa); nonathlete mean: right: 105.4 kPa (SD 34.9 kPa)/left: 101.8 kPa (SD 28.9 kPa). Specificity with which asymptomatic tendons were rated as "inconspicuous" was 60.6% for B-US, 93.9% for PD-US and 96.3% for SWE. CONCLUSION Healthy athletes exhibit significantly higher SWE-values in Achilles tendons than healthy nonathletic participants, which means that they have significantly stiffer tendons, possibly caused by repeated training. SWE is able to measure and display these effects. These interindividual differences should be taken into consideration, especially when rating a tendon as "healthy" or "diseased", because a "softer" tendon does not necessarily mean to be affected.
Collapse
|
42
|
Corrigan P, Zellers JA, Balascio P, Silbernagel KG, Cortes DH. Quantification of Mechanical Properties in Healthy Achilles Tendon Using Continuous Shear Wave Elastography: A Reliability and Validation Study. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2019; 45:1574-1585. [PMID: 31076233 PMCID: PMC6555647 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2019.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2019] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The purposes of this study were to (i) evaluate the intra-rater reliability of estimating Achilles tendon mechanical properties with continuous shear wave elastography (cSWE), (ii) propose an equivalent shear modulus comparable to Supersonic Shear Imaging, (iii) demonstrate construct validity of cSWE and (iv) explore relationships between tensile and shear properties. Achilles tendon mechanical properties were estimated with cSWE at four time points throughout a 4-h period and at a 2-wk follow up. Additionally, properties were estimated with cSWE across four different ankle positions. In these four positions, B-mode ultrasound imaging and dynamometry were used to quantify Young's modulus. Intra-rater reliability was fair-to-excellent for Achilles tendon mechanical properties estimated with cSWE. Construct validity was demonstrated with increased ankle dorsiflexion leading to increased mechanical properties. Linear relationships were found between tensile and shear mechanical properties. Findings demonstrate that cSWE has sufficient intra-rater reliability and validity for estimating Achilles tendon mechanical properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Corrigan
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Jennifer A Zellers
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Phoebe Balascio
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | | | - Daniel H Cortes
- Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, Penn State University, State College, Pennsylvania, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Burling F. Comparison of tetradecyl sulfate versus polidocanol injections for stabilisation of joints that regularly dislocate in an Ehlers-Danlos population. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2019; 5:e000481. [PMID: 30792884 PMCID: PMC6350757 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2018-000481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine whether there is similarity between tetradecyl sulfate and polidocanol in stabilising a joint from dislocating in patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). METHOD A retrospective analysis of patients with EDS in a sole-practice clinic in New Zealand. Patients must have had the diagnosis of EDS, had easily dislocatable joints, had treatment and at least 3 months' follow-up. 0.11% tetradecyl sulfate solution, or 0.25% polidocanol solution, was injected to ligament attachments (enthesis) on the side of the joints where they dislocated. Patients were deemed successfully treated if their affected joints were no longer dislocated over a minimum of 3 months' follow-up (out to 3 years). RESULTS Of 250 patients at the time of the study, 46 fitted the criteria. There were 37 treated with tetradecyl sulfate and nine with polidocanol. For the tetradecyl group there were a total of 305 injections around 97 joints: mean 3.1, range 1-22, median 2. For the polidocanol group there were 36 injections around 19 joints: mean 1.9, range 1-8, median 2. The difference of means between group 1 (tetradecyl) and group 2 (polidocanol) is 1.2, CIs 0.34 to 2.98. All patients had no further dislocations of treated joints unless they had a major new injury (two patients). CONCLUSION There was no difference between the two groups for stabilising joints from dislocating. These two agents appear promising for treating patients with recurrent joint dislocations in the setting of EDS. Prospective multicentre randomised controlled trials are needed to confirm these data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fraser Burling
- Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Clinic, Remuera, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - O Kenechi Nwawka
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hollis G Potter
- Sports Health Associate Editor for Imaging, Department of Radiology and Imaging, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
|
46
|
Karatekin YS, Karaismailoglu B, Kaynak G, Ogut T, Dikici AS, Ure Esmerer E, Aydingoz O, Botanlioglu H. Does elasticity of Achilles tendon change after suture applications? Evaluation of repair area by acoustic radiation force impulse elastography. J Orthop Surg Res 2018; 13:45. [PMID: 29499741 PMCID: PMC5834878 DOI: 10.1186/s13018-018-0751-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Achilles tendon injuries are one of the most common tendon injuries. Surgical treatment is preferred in young and active patients. Although there are studies which evaluate the repair area with magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasonography after surgical treatment, there are very few studies which analyzes the elasticity of the tendon by quantitative methods. ARFI (acoustic radiation force impulse) elastography is a simple and non-invasive method that can quantitatively measure the elasticity of the soft tissues. Our study aims to evaluate the elasticity in the repair area of the surgically treated Achilles tendons, compare them to the non-injured side, and evaluate the effect of the suture method to the elasticity of the repaired tendons by using ARFI elastography. Methods In our retrospectively designed study, 19 patients who underwent surgical treatment with Krackow and modified Kessler suture methods after the Achilles tendon rupture between 2006 and 2014 were included. Shear wave velocity (SWV) of the repaired and non-injured Achilles tendons were measured by ARFI elastography in four different positions of the ankle. Results It was determined that SWV in the surgically repaired tendons were significantly higher in each four different position of the ankle, compared to the non-injured side (p < 0.01), indicating less elasticity in the repaired tendons. There was no statistically significant difference between the SWV of Krackow and modified Kessler suture method groups at four different positions of the ankle (p > 0.05). AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot, VISA-A, VAS, and FAOS scores were not also statistically different between these two suture methods (p > 0.05). Conclusions In the repaired Achilles tendon, there is a decrease in the elasticity compared to the non-injured side. The functional and elastographic results of Krackow and modified Kessler suture methods are similar in long-term follow-ups of the patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yavuz Selim Karatekin
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Kocamustafapasa Cad. No:53, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bedri Karaismailoglu
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Kocamustafapasa Cad. No:53, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gokhan Kaynak
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Kocamustafapasa Cad. No:53, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tahir Ogut
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Kocamustafapasa Cad. No:53, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Atilla Suleyman Dikici
- Department of Radiology, Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Kocamustafapasa Cad. No: 53, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Emel Ure Esmerer
- Department of Radiology, Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Kocamustafapasa Cad. No: 53, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Onder Aydingoz
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Kocamustafapasa Cad. No:53, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Huseyin Botanlioglu
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Kocamustafapasa Cad. No:53, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|