[Value of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in the control of the postoperative progress after Achilles tendon rupture].
OBJECTIVE
A comparison of clinical examination, sonography and MRI in the follow-up of suture of the Achilles tendon.


METHODS
60 patients were examined in a prospective study for 6-78 months following suture of the Achilles tendon repair; both sides were compared clinically and sonographically; in 30 patients MRI was also used. Morphometric measurements (antero-posterior and transverse measurements) and changes in morphological structure were correlated with clinical results.


RESULTS
All patients showed thickening of the Achilles tendon postoperatively. Morphometric and morphological changes showed positive and significant correlation between sonography and MRI (p = < 0.001, p = 0.004). Structural changes in sonography had positive correlation with general symptoms (p = < 0.001), pain on movement (p = < 0.001), reduced function (p = 0.005), and reduced sporting activity (p = 0.034). MRI findings showed significant regression with time (p = 0.05).


CONCLUSIONS
Following repair, the Achilles tendon remained thickened throughout the period of observation. Post-operative changes in the structure of the tendon regressed partially. Sonography and MRI correlate significantly with the clinical findings. Sonography is the imaging method of choice, MRI is an additional procedure.
Rominger
M B
MB
Abteilung Diagnostische Radiologie, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen.
Bachmann
G
G
Schulte
S
S
Zedler
A
A
D000125:Achilles Tendon / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries* / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012421:Rupture; D013537:Sutures; D014463:Ultrasonography
Der Wert von Ultraschall und Magnetresonanztomographie in der postoperativen Verlaufskontrolle nach Achillessehnenruptur.