Cross-sectional area correlation of anterior tibial tendon and extensor hallucis longus tendon: A diagnostic approach for anterior tibial tendon dysfunction

Abstract

Objectives: Anterior tibial tendon (ATT) pathologies, though infrequent, can significantly impact patient morbidity. This study aims to describe the cross-sectional area (CSA) of ATT on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was done on 50 consecutive patients with normal ATT who underwent ankle MRI. The CSA measurements of the ATT with the extensor hallucis longus tendon (EHLT) were measured by one consultant radiologist and one radiology fellow with one repeating measurement after a period of two weeks. Results: Patients were categorized into four age groups: <20, 20-40, 40-60, and >60 years. The average CSA ratio between ATT and EHLT was found to be 1.64, 1.63, 1.64, and 1.67, respectively, for each age group. Conclusion: These findings provide quantitative insights into the correlation between ATT and EHLT CSAs across different age brackets in normal population. These can aid in the diagnosis of pathologies of ATT, such as tendinopathy and tear.