A multifocal retrospective study of non-operative treatment of acute Achilles tendon rupture based on the findings of MRI US, elastography and clinical signs

Abstract

This study is focused on the prevention of tendon elongation during the non-operative treatment of Achilles tendon rupture. We studied the MRI, US and clinical findings of 120 patients treated at our hospital. The items examined are change in elasticity between the tendon stumps on dynamic US, dynamic MRI, elastic modu lus, volume, and length. The US-based Thompson test, the appearance of a negative Thompson test and disappear ance of mechanical elasticity on dynamic US are achieved by 4 weeks and are closely connected to each other.When the difference in elasticity between the tendon stumps diminished, the dynamic MRI did not show elonga tion between the tendon stumps, suggesting that ankle movement could be started safely at that time. It was sug gested that separation between the tendon stumps did not occur, even if load and automatic movement of the an kle joint were performed 3-4 weeks after the initial fixation. This study suggests the importance of the prevention of tendon stump detachment within 3 to 4 weeks after initial fixation in case of non-operative treatment of Achilles tendon rupture.