Computerized Ultrasound Tissue Characterization (UTC) has emerged as the new standard modality for tendinopathy. The UTC System consist of both hardware and software to advance medical imaging. Central to its operation is the UTC Tracker.

This precision instrument precisely and automatically moves the ultrasound probe across target areas. It captures images every 0.2 mm across a 12 cm span. These images are instantly merged into a detailed 3-D ultrasound data block.

This block serves two key purposes: it offers a tomographic view and allows for the detailed examination and measurement of the tendon’s structure and health. What does that mean?

Tomographic Visualization: Setting a New Standard

UTC, the new standard modality for tendinopathy, offers a depth of insight previously unattainable. The 3-D ultrasound data block allows users to explore various sections instantly, offering insights into tendons and ligaments from multiple angles. Such a comprehensive view aids in assessing the tendon’s condition, supporting precise and less invasive treatments.

Tendons and ligaments can be visualized in various planes: transversal, sagittal and coronal. Plus it can be visaulized in a 3-D rendered coronal view. In this way, the 3-D data enables users to explore various sections instantly, offering insights into tendons and ligaments from multiple angles. Such a comprehensive view aids in assessing the tendon’s condition, supporting precise and less invasive treatments.

Understanding Tissue Characteristics

Research has linked the dynamic patterns seen in ultrasound images to the physical state of tendons. UTC’s algorithms can analyze these patterns, providing insights into the tendon’s health. Tendon tissue displays four unique echo types, each indicating a different integrity level:

• Echo-type I (Green): Shows intact and aligned tendon bundles.
• Echo-type II (Blue): Indicates less uniform tendon bundles.
• Echo-type III (Red): Reflects mainly fibrillar components.
• Echo-type IV (Black): Suggests the presence of cellular components and fluid.
  
  

This information, visualized in three dimensions and quantified, correlates closely with the tendon’s histological makeup. This precision underscores UTC’s role as the new standard modality for tendinopathy, showcasing its unmatched capability in diagnosing and characterizing tissue conditions.

These improvements ensure that medical practitioners can now more accurately assess and treat tendon-related conditions, marking a significant advancement in diagnostic imaging.