Background: Computed tomography, ultrasonography, and magnetic resonance imaging are useful in the diagnosis of tears of the Achilles tendon, but none are capable of detecting early or small tears. Herein, we applied diffraction-enhanced imaging, a radiographic technique that detects x-ray attenuation and x-ray refraction, to the imaging of compromised Achilles tendons.
Methods: Diffraction-enhanced imaging was used to detect incomplete surgically induced tears of the Achilles tendon in nine cadaveric human feet and ankles.
Results: Complete and significant partial tears were detectable in diffraction-enhanced images as x-ray refraction changes.
Conclusions: Although still in the experimental stages, diffraction-enhanced imaging may eventually prove useful for the diagnosis of Achilles tendon tears.