The Achilles Tendon: Imaging Diagnoses and Image-Guided Interventions—<i>AJR</i> Expert Panel Narrative Review
B. Pass, Philip Robinson, Alice S. Ha, Benjamin D. Levine, Corrie M. Yablon, Emma Rowbotham
Abstract
Expert Panel Narrative Review, we discuss the role of various imaging modalities (particularly ultrasound and MRI) in the assessment of Achilles tendon pathology, focusing on the modalities' relative advantages and technical considerations. We describe the most common diagnoses affecting the Achilles tendon and adjacent structures, highlighting key imaging findings and providing representative examples. Various image-guided interventions that may be used in the management of Achilles tendon pathology are also reviewed, including high-volume injection, tendon fenestration, prolotherapy, and corticosteroid injection. The limited evidence supporting such interventions are summarized, noting an overall paucity of large-scale studies showing benefit. Finally, a series of consensus statements by the panel on imaging and image-guided intervention for Achilles tendon pathology are provided.