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Day JM, Merriman H. Upper extremity soft tissue stiffness measured with shear wave elastography: A between-day reliability study. Shoulder Elbow 2024; 16:159-168. [PMID: 38655409 PMCID: PMC11034466 DOI: 10.1177/17585732231179115] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Background Imbalances in soft tissue stiffness (STS) of the pectoralis and common wrist extensors (CWEs) can adversely alter upper extremity function. Shear wave elastography (SWE) has the capacity to provide precise, repeatable, objective data on STS. The purpose of this study was to determine the between-day intrarater reliability for the pectoralis and CWE tendon stiffness as measured by SWE. Methods STS measured by the shear wave modulus (kilopascals (kPa)) was captured bilaterally on the pectoralis major, pectoralis minor, and CWE tendon using 2D SWE ultrasound imaging (GE Logiq S8, 9 L transducer) on two separate days. Within examiner intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC (3, 3)) with 95% confidence intervals, standard error of the measure, and minimal detectable changes were calculated. Results The investigators recruited 10 healthy participants (mean age = 23.50 ± 1.43). Between day intrarater reliability values were obtained for the dominant pectoralis major ICC = 0.70 (-0.15, -0.93), nondominant pectoralis major ICC = 0.63 (-0.30, -0.91), dominant pectoralis minor ICC = 0 .72(-0.04, -0.93), nondominant pectoralis minor ICC = 0.75(0.08, -0.94), dominant CWE tendon ICC = 0.75(-0.08, -0.94), and nondominant CWE tendon ICC = 0.75(-0.12, -0.94). Discussion Our data demonstrate acceptable reliability but future studies should include methods that control for variables known to effect STS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph M Day
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Dayton, Ohio, USA
| | - Harold Merriman
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Dayton, Ohio, USA
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Billy J, Bensamoun SF, Mercier J, Durand S. Applications of ultrasound elastography to hand and upper limb disorders. HAND SURGERY & REHABILITATION 2024; 43:101636. [PMID: 38215880 DOI: 10.1016/j.hansur.2024.101636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Ultrasound elastography is a recently developed method for accurate measurement of soft tissue stiffness in addition to the clinician's subjective evaluation. The present review briefly describes the ultrasound elastography techniques and outlines clinical applications for tendon, muscle, nerve, skin and other soft tissues of the hand and upper limb. Strain elastography provides a qualitative evaluation of the stiffness, and shear-wave elastography generates quantitative elastograms superimposed on a B-mode image. The stiffness in degenerative tendinopathy and/or tendon injury was significantly lower than in a normal tendon in several studies. Elastography is also a reliable method to evaluate functional muscle activity, compared to conventional surface electromyography. The median nerve is consistently stiffer in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome than in healthy subjects, on whatever ultrasound elastography technique. Elastography distinguishes normal skin from scars and can be used to evaluate scar severity and treatment. Elastography has huge clinical applications in musculoskeletal tissues. Continued development of systems and increased training of clinicians will expand our knowledge of elastography and its clinical applications in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Billy
- Department of Hand Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sabine F Bensamoun
- Sorbonne University, Université de Technologie de Compiègne, CNRS UMR 7338, Biomechanics and Bioengineering, Compiègne, France
| | - Julie Mercier
- Department of Hand Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sébastien Durand
- Department of Hand Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland.
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Chowdhary K, Raum G, Visco C. Diagnostic utility of shear wave elastography in musculoskeletal injuries: A narrative review. PM R 2024; 16:384-397. [PMID: 38607311 DOI: 10.1002/pmrj.13179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Shear wave elastography (SWE) is an emerging and promising ultrasound modality, and is more recently employed in the diagnosis of musculoskeletal (MSK) pathologies. SWE evaluates tissue stiffness by measuring the speed of propagating acoustic waves through body tissue structures. Knowing the variations in stiffness of MSK soft tissue can provide helpful diagnostic insight for the evaluation of pathology in muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and other soft tissues. The goal of this review is to synthesize recent literature on the utility of SWE for MSK pathology diagnosis. This review reveals that SWE adds important diagnostic data for the evaluation of several pathologies, such as median mononeuropathy at the wrist, Achilles tendinopathy, and plantar fasciitis. The review also reveals a lack of evidence pertaining to appropriate standardization of use and the connection to reliable and valid diagnostic benefit in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuntal Chowdhary
- Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
| | - George Raum
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Christopher Visco
- Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
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Marotta N, de Sire A, Lippi L, Moggio L, Mondardini P, Sgro M, Bartalotta I, Zito R, Giroldini T, Invernizzi M, Longo UG, Ammendolia A. Effectiveness of High-Power Laser Therapy via Shear Wave Speed Analysis on Pain and Functioning in Patients with Lateral Epicondylitis: A Proof-of-Concept Study. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2014. [PMID: 38610779 PMCID: PMC11012724 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13072014] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Lateral epicondylitis (LE) causes lateral elbow pain due to the overuse of the common extensor tendon. Several therapies have been proposed for pain relief and functional recovery, including physical therapy, minimally invasive injection approaches, and physical agent modalities such as laser therapy. Methods: Our study evaluates the impact of high-power laser therapy (HPLT) on pain and functioning. The HPLT protocol consists of 10 daily sessions using a LASERIX PRO device. The healthy elbow of each participant was also considered as a control group. The outcomes assessed were the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) for pain, QuickDASH questionnaire for functionality, and shear wave velocity (SWS) through ultrasonography. Assessments were conducted at baseline (T0), post-treatment (T1), and 2-week follow-up (T2). Results: Sixteen participants (81.2% male, mean age 40.4 ± 5.53 years) completed the study. Post-treatment, pain significantly decreased (NRS: T0 6.13 ± 0.96; T1 2.75 ± 1.69; p < 0.001), functionality improved (QuickDASH: T0 69.88 ± 10.75; T1 41.20 ± 3.78; p < 0.001), and shear wave velocity increased (SWS (m/s): T0 1.69 ± 0.35; T1 2.56 ± 0.36; p < 0.001). Conclusions: At the 2-week follow-up, pain relief was maintained, and shear wave velocity showed no further significant change. Shear wave velocity assessments might be considered a useful diagnostic tool. However, further research is needed to support the role of HPLT and shear wave velocity in the rehabilitation management of LE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Marotta
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Catanzaro “Magna Graecia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
- Research Center on Musculoskeletal Health, MusculoSkeletalHealth@UMG, University of Catanzaro “Magna Graecia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Alessandro de Sire
- Research Center on Musculoskeletal Health, MusculoSkeletalHealth@UMG, University of Catanzaro “Magna Graecia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Catanzaro “Magna Graecia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.S.); (I.B.); (R.Z.); (T.G.)
| | - Lorenzo Lippi
- Department of Scientific Research, Campus LUdeS Lugano (CH), Off-Campus Semmelweis University of Budapest, 1085 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Lucrezia Moggio
- Rehabilitation Unit, Ospedale degli Infermi, 13875 Biella, Italy;
| | - Paolo Mondardini
- Department of Sport Science, Università di Bologna, 40100 Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Sgro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Catanzaro “Magna Graecia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.S.); (I.B.); (R.Z.); (T.G.)
| | - Isabella Bartalotta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Catanzaro “Magna Graecia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.S.); (I.B.); (R.Z.); (T.G.)
| | - Roberta Zito
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Catanzaro “Magna Graecia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.S.); (I.B.); (R.Z.); (T.G.)
| | - Teobaldo Giroldini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Catanzaro “Magna Graecia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.S.); (I.B.); (R.Z.); (T.G.)
| | - Marco Invernizzi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Piedmont “A. Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy;
- Translational Medicine, Dipartimento Attività Integrate Ricerca e Innovazione (DAIRI), Azienda Ospedaliera SS. Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo, 15121 Alessandria, Italy
| | - Umile Giuseppe Longo
- Research Unit of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Campus Bio-Medico, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 200, 00128 Rome, Italy;
- Research Unit of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Alvaro del Portillo, 21, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Ammendolia
- Research Center on Musculoskeletal Health, MusculoSkeletalHealth@UMG, University of Catanzaro “Magna Graecia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Catanzaro “Magna Graecia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (M.S.); (I.B.); (R.Z.); (T.G.)
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Day JM, Merriman H. Common Wrist-Extensor Tendon and Pectoralis Muscle Stiffness in Healthy Recreational Tennis Players. J Sport Rehabil 2024; 33:174-180. [PMID: 38377986 DOI: 10.1123/jsr.2023-0202] [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] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
CONTEXT Imbalances in upper-extremity soft tissue stiffness may play a role in the development of shoulder and elbow musculoskeletal injuries in tennis players. Ultrasound shear wave elastography provides quantifiable and specific data regarding muscle stiffness. The purpose of this study was to compare tendon and muscle stiffness in healthy tennis players to nontennis players. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. METHODS The shear wave modulus, measured in kilopascals, was obtained for the dominant pectoralis major, pectoralis minor, and common wrist-extensor tendon using 2-dimensional shear wave elastography ultrasound imaging (GE Logiq S8, L9 linear transducer). Independent t test was run to compare age, body mass index, and the activity index score between both groups. Within-day intrarater reliability was assessed using a within-examiner intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC [3, 1]) with 95% confidence intervals. A multivariate general linear model was run to compare the mean differences between the tennis and nontennis players for each of the soft tissues. RESULTS Twenty-six individuals (13 tennis players and 13 nontennis players) were recruited. Within-day ICCs were very good (ICC > .78 for the pectoralis musculature) and excellent (ICC > .94 for the common wrist extensor). Common extensor tendon stiffness was significantly higher in tennis players compared to nontennis players (mean difference = 114.8 [61.8], confidence interval, -22.8 to 252.5 kPa for the dominant arm [P = .039]). Mean pectoralis major and minor stiffness differences were not significant (P > .214). CONCLUSIONS Common wrist-extensor stiffness in healthy recreational tennis players is higher than those who do not play tennis. Therefore, clinicians may need to facilitate a greater soft tissue stiffness response with resistance training when rehabilitating recreational tennis players as compared to those not playing tennis. Additional normative data on a larger sample of recreational tennis players should be collected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph M Day
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH, USA
| | - Harold Merriman
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH, USA
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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.
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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
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Ustabaşıoğlu F, Günay B, Samancı C, Emre Ustabaşıoğlu F. Assessment of common extensor tendon vascularization using superb microvascular imaging: a potential tool in the evaluation of extracorporeal shock wave therapy and therapeutic ultrasound effectiveness in lateral epicondylitis. Acta Radiol 2023; 64:2828-2835. [PMID: 37553907 DOI: 10.1177/02841851231191069] [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: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lateral epicondylitis, also known as tennis elbow, is the most common elbow pain in the adult age group. PURPOSE To evaluate common extensor tendon (CET) vascularity with superb microvascular imaging (SMI) before and after extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) and ultrasound (US) treatment in patients with lateral epycondylitis and to compare the effects of two different treatments on tendon vascularity. MATERIAL AND METHODS Patients with lateral epycondylitis were divided into two groups; 30 patients were treated with ESWT (group 1) and 30 patients were treated with therapeutic US (group 2). We performed a high-frequency (14-MHz) linear array transducer to evaluate tendon anatomy and vascularity before and after treatment in both groups. RESULTS The decrease in Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE) score after treatment was statistically significant compared to pre-treatment for both groups (P < 0.001). Likewise, the decrease in visual analog scale (VAS) score after treatment was statistically significant compared to pre-treatment for both groups (P < 0.001). A significant difference was found between the CET SMI values of group 1 and group 2 after treatment, according to the chi-square test (P < 0.001). In the post-treatment VAS and PRTEE comparison of both groups, the score reduction in group 1 was higher than in group 2, and this decrease was statistically significant (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION We can evaluate CET vascularization with the SMI method as a new potential diagnostic tool in comparing the effectiveness of different treatments in cases of lateral epicondylitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Ustabaşıoğlu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Edirne Sultan 1st Murat State Hospital, Edirne, Turkey
| | - Burak Günay
- Department of Radiology, Trakya University Faculty of Medicine, Edirne, Turkey
| | - Cesur Samancı
- Department of Radiology, Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
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Hong S, Hahn S, Yi J, Park EJ, Bang JY. Comparing the clinical application of strain elastography and shear wave elastography for the evaluation of lateral epicondylitis. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2023; 51:123-130. [PMID: 36169174 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.23356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to compare the diagnostic performance of gray-scale ultrasound (GSU), strain elastography (SE), and shear wave elastography (SWE) for lateral epicondylitis (LE). METHODS From November 2018 to March 2021, 87 common extensor tendons (CETs) of 70 patients were evaluated using elbow ultrasound. Patients were divided into two groups: patients with LE and those without lateral elbow pain. GSU, SE, and SWE findings from the two groups were compared, and the diagnostic performance was compared for significant variables. RESULTS Among the 70 patients, 41 with 44 CETs were clinically diagnosed with LE, and 29 with 43 CETs had no lateral elbow pain. Hypoechogenicity, calcification, and hyperemia were significantly different. Strain ratio (SR), stiffness, and shear wave velocity (SWV) were also significantly different. The diagnostic accuracy of stiffness and SWV was better than that of other significant findings. Furthermore, there were no superiorities in SR, stiffness, or SWV. CONCLUSION Both SE and SWE can be valuable diagnostic tools for diagnosing LE. The diagnostic performances of both SE and SWE were similar in the detection of LE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujin Hong
- Department of Radiology, Inje University College of Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok Hahn
- Department of Radiology, Inje University College of Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jisook Yi
- Department of Radiology, Inje University College of Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Joo Park
- Department of Radiology, Inje University College of Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Young Bang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Inje University College of Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea
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Heo DJ, Kim JM. Attention to musculoskeletal elastography of common extensor tendon pathology. Muscle Nerve 2021; 64:E26-E27. [PMID: 34477235 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dong Jin Heo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Incheon St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Min Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Incheon St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Incheon, Republic of Korea
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Wee TC, Simon NG. Asymptomatic common extensor tendon pathology in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. Muscle Nerve 2021; 64:64-69. [PMID: 33847378 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and lateral epicondylitis are both highly prevalent conditions. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of B-mode ultrasound abnormalities of the common extensor tendon (CET) in patients with CTS and establish the relationship between CET stiffness, as measured by shear wave elastography (SWE) and CTS severity. METHODS Patients without symptoms or signs of lateral epicondylitis were recruited from referrals to a neurophysiology laboratory for possible CTS. These patients were examined for clinical features of CTS before undergoing electrodiagnostic testing followed by an ultrasound examination, consisting of B-mode, power Doppler, and SWE. RESULTS Thirty-nine limbs with clinically diagnosed CTS and 20 control limbs were included. Of the CTS limbs, 61.5% had sonographically abnormal CET compared with 35% of the controls. The mean CET sonographic abnormality score was higher in CTS patients compared with controls (P = .006). CTS patients with sonographically abnormal CET had more severe CTS by electrophysiological criteria. The mean CET stiffness in CTS patients was lower than in controls (P = .033). DISCUSSION Sonographic abnormalities of the CET are common in CTS patients with no clinical evidence of lateral epicondylitis and may relate to common pathogenetic mechanisms. These findings suggest that isolated ultrasound abnormalities in the CET are not diagnostically useful in patients presenting with upper limb pain unless there are clinical features of lateral epicondylitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tze Chao Wee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Neil G Simon
- Northern Clinical School, University of Sydney, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
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Karanasios S, Korakakis V, Moutzouri M, Drakonaki E, Koci K, Pantazopoulou V, Tsepis E, Gioftsos G. Diagnostic accuracy of examination tests for lateral elbow tendinopathy (LET) - A systematic review. J Hand Ther 2021; 35:541-551. [PMID: 33814224 DOI: 10.1016/j.jht.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reviews on the diagnostic performance of the examination tests for lateral elbow tendinopathy (LET) based on updated context-specific tools and guidelines are missing. PURPOSE To review the diagnostic accuracy of examination tests used in LET. DESIGN Systematic review following PRISMA-DTA guidelines. METHODS We searched MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, PEDro, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library databases. The QUADAS-2 checklist was used to assess the methodological quality of the eligible studies. We included diagnostic studies reporting the accuracy of physical examination tests or imaging modalities used in patients with LET. RESULTS Twenty-four studies with 1370 participants were identified reporting the diagnostic performance of Ultrasound Imaging (USI) (18 studies), physical examination tests (2 studies) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (4 studies). Most studies (97%) were assessed with "unclear" or "high risk" of bias. Sonoelastography showed the highest sensitivity (75- 100%) and specificity (85- 96%). Grayscale with or without Doppler USI presented poor to excellent values (sensitivity: 53%-100%, specificity: 42%-90%). MRI performed better in the diagnosis of tendon thickening and enthesopathy (sensitivity and specificity: 81%-100%). The Cozen's test reported high sensitivity (91%) while a grip strength difference of 5%-10% between elbow flexion and extension showed high sensitivity (78%-83%) and specificity (80%-90%). CONCLUSIONS Cozen's test and grip strength measurement present high accuracy in the diagnosis of LET but are poorly investigated. USI and MRI provide variable diagnostic accuracy depending on the entities reported and should be recommended with caution when differential diagnosis is necessary. Substantial heterogeneity was found in inclusion criteria, operator/ examiner, mode of application, type of equipment and reference standards across the studies. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO ID CRD42020160402.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Maria Moutzouri
- Physiotherapy Department, University of West Attica, Egaleo, Greece
| | - Eleni Drakonaki
- Medical School of the European University Cyprus, Engomi, Nicosia Cyprus
| | - Klaudia Koci
- Physiotherapy Department, University of West Attica, Egaleo, Greece
| | | | - Elias Tsepis
- Physiotherapy Department, University of Patras, Greece
| | - George Gioftsos
- Physiotherapy Department, University of West Attica, Egaleo, Greece
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Bang JY, Hahn S, Yi J, Lim YJ, Jung HK. Clinical applicability of shear wave elastography for the evaluation of medial epicondylitis. Eur Radiol 2021; 31:6726-6735. [PMID: 33634322 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-021-07791-3] [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: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the ability of shear wave elastography (SWE) in diagnosing medial epicondylitis and to compare the diagnostic performance of SWE with that of grey-scale ultrasound (GSU) and strain elastography (SE). METHODS GSU, SE, and SWE were performed on 61 elbows of 54 patients from March 2018 to April 2019. An experienced radiologist evaluated the GSU findings (swelling, cortical irregularity, hypoechogenicity, calcification, and tear), colour Doppler findings (hyperaemia), SE findings (strain ratio [SR]), and SWE findings (stiffness and shear wave velocity [SWV]). Participants were divided in two groups: patients with clinically diagnosed medial epicondylitis and patients without medial elbow pain. Findings from the two groups were compared, and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were calculated for significant features. RESULTS Of the 54 patients, 25 patients with 28 imaged elbows were clinically diagnosed with medial epicondylitis and 29 patients with 33 imaged elbows had no medial elbow pain. Cortical irregularity, hypoechogenicity, calcification, hyperaemia, SR, stiffness, and SWV were significantly different between the two groups. The areas under the ROC curves were 0.838 for hypoechogenicity, 0.948 for SR, 0.999 for stiffness, and 0.999 for SWV. The diagnostic performances of SR, stiffness, and SWV were significantly superior compared to that of hypoechogenicity. However, there were no significant differences among SR, stiffness, and SWV. CONCLUSIONS SWE can obtain both stiffness and SWV, which are valuable diagnostic tools in the diagnosis of medial epicondylitis. The diagnostic performance of SWE and SE is similar in detecting medial epicondylitis. KEY POINTS • Shear wave elastography providing stiffness and shear wave velocity showed excellent performance in the diagnosis of medial epicondylitis. • There was no significant difference in the ability of SE and SWE for diagnosing medial epicondylitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Young Bang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Inje University College of Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, 875 Haeundae-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan, 48108, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok Hahn
- Department of Radiology, Inje University College of Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, 875 Haeundae-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan, 48108, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jisook Yi
- Department of Radiology, Inje University College of Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, 875 Haeundae-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan, 48108, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Jung Lim
- Department of Radiology, Inje University College of Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, 875 Haeundae-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan, 48108, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Kyung Jung
- Department of Radiology, Inje University College of Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, 875 Haeundae-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan, 48108, Republic of Korea
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McKean D, Chung SL, Naudé RTW, McElroy B, Baxter J, Pendse A, Papanikitas J, Teh J, Hughes R. Elasticity of the coracohumeral ligament in patients with frozen shoulder following rotator interval injection: a case series. J Ultrason 2021; 20:e300-e306. [PMID: 33500798 PMCID: PMC7830058 DOI: 10.15557/jou.2020.0052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim of the study: To evaluate changes in the elasticity of the coracohumeral ligament in patients with adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder treated with ultrasound-guided rotator interval injections. Methods: Shear wave elastography was used to evaluate elasticity of the coracohumeral ligament in symptomatic and asymptomatic shoulders in the shoulder-neutral position and 30° external rotation. A total of 24 shoulders were assessed. Symptomatic shoulders were treated with targeted steroid injection via the rotator interval and manipulation under local anaesthetic block. Follow-up assessment of the elasticity of the coracohumeral ligament was obtained at 10 weeks post-injection. Results: In all subjects, the coracohumeral ligament elastic modulus was larger at 30° external rotation than in the neutral position. In patients with adhesive capsulitis, the coracohumeral ligament thickness and elastic modulus was significantly greater in the symptomatic shoulder in the neutral position and 30° ER. Treated patients had an excellent response with improved Oxford Shoulder Score and reduced visual analogue scale pain scores. Median Oxford Shoulder Score was 13.5 pre-injection and 34 at 10 weeks post-injection. Median visual analogue scale pain scores measured 8.5 pre-injection, 3.5 at 1 day, 2 at 1 week, and 2.5 at 10 weeks. Improved Oxford Shoulder Score and visual analogue scale pain score was associated with a trend to normalisation of the elastic modus of the coracohumeral ligament. Conclusion: In patients with adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder, shear wave elastography demonstrated the coracohumeral ligament is stiffer in the symptomatic shoulder than in the unaffected shoulder. Treatment with the ultrasound-guided rotator interval injection is associated with improved Oxford Shoulder Score, reduced visual analogue scale pain scores, and reduced stiffness in the coracohumeral ligament.
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Affiliation(s)
- David McKean
- Radiology Department, Stoke Mandeville Hospital, Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, UK
| | - Siok Li Chung
- Radiology Department, Stoke Mandeville Hospital, Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, UK
| | - Rebecca Te Water Naudé
- Radiology Department, Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK
| | - Bernard McElroy
- Orthopaedic Department, Chiltern Hospital, Great Missenden, UK
| | - Jonathan Baxter
- Orthopaedic Department, Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, UK
| | - Aniruddha Pendse
- Orthopaedic Department, Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, UK
| | - Joseph Papanikitas
- Radiology Department, Stoke Mandeville Hospital, Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, UK
| | - James Teh
- Radiology Department, Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK
| | - Richard Hughes
- Radiology Department, Stoke Mandeville Hospital, Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, UK
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Arrigoni P, Cucchi D, Luceri F, Zagarella A, Catapano M, Menon A, Bruno V, Gallazzi M, Randelli PS. Ultrasound evaluation shows increase in laxity after partial common extensor origin detachment but not after additional lesion of the radial band of the lateral collateral ligament. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2021; 29:4067-4074. [PMID: 34455451 PMCID: PMC8595151 DOI: 10.1007/s00167-021-06711-8] [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: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The lateral elbow musculature conveys a dynamic valgus moment to the elbow, increasing joint stability. Muscular or tendinous lesions to the anterior half of the common extensor origin (CEO) may provoke a deficiency in the elbow dynamic stabilizers, regardless of their traumatic, degenerative, or iatrogenic aetiology. Furthermore, a role for the radial band of the lateral collateral ligament (R-LCL) has been postulated in the aetiology of lateral elbow pain. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of sequential lateral releases with dynamic ultrasound, evaluating its capability to detect lesions of the CEO and of the R-LCL. METHODS Ultrasound investigation of the lateral compartment of the elbow was performed on nine cadaveric specimens with a 10 MHz linear probe in basal conditions, after the release of the anterior half of the CEO and after complete R-LCL release. The lateral joint line widening (λ) was the primary outcome parameter, measured as the linear distance between the humeral and radial articular surfaces. RESULTS The release of the anterior half of the CEO significantly increased λ by 200% compared to the starting position (p = 0.0008) and the previously loaded position (p = 0.0015). Conversely, further release of the R-LCL caused only a marginal, non-significant increase in λ. CONCLUSIONS Ultrasound evaluation can detect changes related to tendon tears or muscular avulsions of the CEO and can depict lateral elbow compartmental patholaxity by assessing articular space widening while scanning under dynamic stress. However, it cannot reliably define if the R-LCL is injured. Iatrogenic damage to the CEO should be carefully avoided, since it causes a massive increase in compartmental laxity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Arrigoni
- U.O.C. 1° Clinica Ortopedica, ASST Centro Specialistico Ortopedico Traumatologico Gaetano Pini-CTO, Piazza Cardinal Ferrari 1, 20122 Milan, Italy ,Laboratory of Applied Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Cucchi
- Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Francesco Luceri
- U.O.C. 1° Clinica Ortopedica, ASST Centro Specialistico Ortopedico Traumatologico Gaetano Pini-CTO, Piazza Cardinal Ferrari 1, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Zagarella
- U.O.C. Radiodiagnostica, ASST Centro Specialistico Ortopedico Traumatologico Gaetano Pini-CTO, Piazza Cardinal Ferrari 1, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Catapano
- U.O.C. Radiodiagnostica, ASST Centro Specialistico Ortopedico Traumatologico Gaetano Pini-CTO, Piazza Cardinal Ferrari 1, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Menon
- U.O.C. 1° Clinica Ortopedica, ASST Centro Specialistico Ortopedico Traumatologico Gaetano Pini-CTO, Piazza Cardinal Ferrari 1, 20122 Milan, Italy ,Laboratory of Applied Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Bruno
- Istituto Clinico San Siro, Via Monreale, 18, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Gallazzi
- U.O.C. Radiodiagnostica, ASST Centro Specialistico Ortopedico Traumatologico Gaetano Pini-CTO, Piazza Cardinal Ferrari 1, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Pietro Simone Randelli
- U.O.C. 1° Clinica Ortopedica, ASST Centro Specialistico Ortopedico Traumatologico Gaetano Pini-CTO, Piazza Cardinal Ferrari 1, 20122 Milan, Italy ,Laboratory of Applied Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milan, Italy ,Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Research Center for Adult and Pediatric Rheumatic Diseases (RECAP-RD), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Mangiagalli 31, 20133 Milan, Italy
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