Use of Ultrasonography for Measuring Achilles Tendon Thickness: a Novel Measurement Method

Sakarya University

Status: Completed

Conditions: Emergency Medicine; Achilles Tendon; Ultrasonography

Treatments: Diagnostic Test: Use of Ultrasonography for Measuring Achilles Tendon Thickness

Study type: Observational

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT06867211

43012747-050.04-399468-15

Details and patient eligibility

About

Background: Achilles tendon thickness has been associated with various diseases. Among imaging modalities, ultrasonography stands out because of its advantages in assessing Achilles tendon thickness. Previous studies typically recommend performing Achilles tendon ultrasonography with the patient in a prone position on an examination table. However, because it is not always possible or safe for each patient to assume the prone position, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between measurements obtained in the supine position and those obtained using the standard method.

Methods: A total of 180 healthy volunteers aged ≥18 years (70 female and 110 male; 360 Achilles tendons), with no history of disease or medication use, were included in the study. Achilles tendon measurements (thickness, width, and cross-sectional area) were obtained via ultrasonography in four different positions, including the standard method. The alternative methods included the supine position with the leg extended (Method 2), the supine position with the ankle resting on the opposite knee (Method 3), and the supine position with the leg held in the air at 90 degrees of hip and knee flexion (Method 4). Measurements were taken 2 cm distal from the Achilles tendon insertion on the calcaneus.

Enrollment: 180 patients

Sex: All

Ages: 18+ years old

Volunteers: Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

• Healthy volunteers aged >18 years who agreed to participate in the study

Exclusion criteria

• Individuals with tenosynovitis, tendinitis, bursitis, tuberculous arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, a history of Achilles tendon surgery, or tendon injuries.

Trial design

180 participants in 1 patient group

Use of Ultrasonography for Measuring Achilles Tendon Thickness

Treatment:

Diagnostic Test: Use of Ultrasonography for Measuring Achilles Tendon Thickness