Muscle-Tendon-Enthesis Unit

Semin Musculoskelet Radiol. 2018 Jul;22(3):263-274. doi: 10.1055/s-0038-1641570. Epub 2018 May 23.

Abstract

Injuries to the muscle-tendon-enthesis unit are common and a significant source of pain and loss of function. This article focuses on the important anatomical and biomechanical considerations for each component of the muscle-tendon-enthesis unit. We review normal and pathologic conditions affecting this unit, illustrating the imaging appearance of common disorders on magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound. Knowledge of the anatomy and biomechanics of these structures is crucial for the radiologist to make accurate diagnoses and provide clinically relevant assessments.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Diagnostic Imaging*
  • Humans
  • Muscle, Skeletal / diagnostic imaging*
  • Muscle, Skeletal / injuries*
  • Musculoskeletal Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Musculoskeletal Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Musculoskeletal Physiological Phenomena*
  • Tendon Injuries / diagnostic imaging*
  • Tendon Injuries / physiopathology*
  • Tendons / anatomy & histology*
  • Tendons / diagnostic imaging*