Computer-based quantification of the Achilles tendon thickness in sequential B-mode ultrasound images: a study of feasibility and reliability.

INTRODUCTION: Assessment of the Achilles tendon thickness (ATT) using B-mode ultrasound is a common technique for clinical evaluation of chronic mid-part tendinosis. Currently used image-based assessment is limited by relatively high inter- and intra-observer variability. In this study, it was tested whether a new sequence-based automated assessment of ATT provides more reliable and reproducible results than the standard image-based procedure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 118 non-operated tendons of 59 healthy subjects (44, range 28-50 years) were analysed using an automated image based as well as a newly developed automated sequence-based method. Correlation and agreement of both methods were evaluated. The root mean square deviation (RMSD) and a Bland-Altman analysis were performed to highlight observer (n = 18 tendons) as well as reader (n = 40 tendons) dependent variabilities of both methods. RESULTS: A strong correlation was found between image and sequence-based ATT assessment (p = 0.92). The Bland-Altman analysis showed a good agreement between both methods (mean difference 0.0018, 95 % CI: -0.046; 0.05). In repetitive examinations, sequence-based analysis showed a significant reduction concerning reader- and observer-dependent variability compared to image-based assessment. The RMSD for repetitive sequence-based measurements was approximately 0.3 mm (compared to 0.6 mm for image-based measurement), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The study shows sequence-based automated assessment of ATT being clearly superior to the standard image-based procedure. The new method provides a clear reduction of reader as well as observer-dependent variability. Due to the decreased scattering of measurement data sequence-based measurement seems especially valuable for quantification of small tendon thickness changes such as exercise-induced hypertrophy.