Article

A sonographic study. This study aimed to provide sonographic imaging of the patellar tendon (PT) - one
of the main weight bearing structures for prosthetic use
- in transtibial
amputees. Thirteen males, who had been under follow-up for unilateral traumatic
transtibial amputations, were enrolled. After physical examination of the limb,
pain was evaluated by visual analogue scale and Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic
Symptoms and Signs. Sonographic evaluations were performed by using a linear
array probe (Aloka UST-5524-7.5 MHz) on both sides. Measurements pertaining to
the contralateral limbs were taken as controls. In three subjects (23.1%), two
with a silicone liner and one with a pelite liner, cortical irregularities were
detected at the tibial insertion of the PT on the amputated sides. PTs were found
to be thicker on the amputated sides when compared with those of the
contralateral sides (p = 0.03), and this increase in thickness correlated with
disease duration (r = 0.67,
p = 0.01). Overall, our preliminary results imply
that after transtibial amputation, PTs of the amputated sides tend to become
thicker by time. These findings need to be complemented with future studies. In
this regard, sonography seems to be promising for imaging the soft tissue
problems of the stump.

Langue : ANGLAIS