Morphometric evaluation of human Achilles tendon: a cadaveric study of Malawian adult male population

Abstract

The anatomy of the Achilles tendon and its relationship to the posterior compartment of the leg dimensions are critical in managing Achilles tendinopathy. Individuals show considerable differences in the dimensions of the Achilles tendon across populations. This study aimed to determine the morphology and morphometric dimensions of the Achilles tendon in adult male Malawian cadavers and to suggest clinical implications associated with Achilles tendinopathy. Male adult Achilles tendon specimens (n=14) obtained from the dissection laboratory at Kamuzu University of Health Sciences were dissected to assess the tendon length, proximal width, middle width, distal width, proximal circumference, middle circumference, distal circumference, proximal thickness, middle thickness, distal thickness, and gastrocnemius bulkiness using a standard Vernier caliper. The study found that the mean Achilles tendon length was 4.06 cm. The tendon length, width, circumference, and thickness showed no statistically significant difference between the right and left lower limbs; however, there was a positive correlation between gastrocnemius bulkiness and Achilles tendon proximal thickness. The current study has described the morphology and morphometry of the Achilles tendon concerning the risk of Achilles tendinopathy. Our sample population generally showed smaller Achilles tendon dimensions than other populations. This should be considered during the management of Achilles tendinopathy and preoperative planning of surgical operations of the posterior compartment of the leg.