MSK-HRUS--Achilles tendon rupture

The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the human body, and it is formed from tendinous contributions of the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. Patients with an Achilles tendon rupture frequently present with complaints of a sudden snap in the lower calf associated with acute severe pain and loss of plantar flexion power in the foot..

As the strongest tendon of the human body, the Achilles tendon originates from the soleus and gastrocnemius muscles, and inserts onto the posterior calcaneal tuberosity. The tendon is surrounded by a paratenon rather than a synovial sheath. 

  Dynamic evaluation.

 Dynamic imaging is important in evaluation of Achilles tendon tears since hemorrhage, fluid, debris, or scar tissue may fill the gap between torn tendon ends. 

·         Full-thickness tear: 

This disorder is characterized by complete tendon fiber disruption and tendon retraction. 

Sonography is an efficient and accurate way to assess the Achilles tendon. Advantages of sonographic evaluation include cost,

 widely available equipment, ease of contralateral comparison, 

and the ability to image during joint motion.