Understanding Patellar Tendon Microstructure with Imaging Techniques
Quantifying Patellar Tendon Microstructure Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging
University of Wisconsin, Madison · NCT06381492
This study is testing if special imaging techniques can help us understand patellar tendon injuries better and see how they relate to knee function in patients.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 90 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Wisconsin, Madison (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Madison, Wisconsin) |
| Trial ID | NCT06381492 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to explore the relationship between diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and traditional measures of knee function in patients with patellar tendon injuries. Participants will undergo MRI and ultrasound imaging, perform knee function tests, and complete questionnaires to assess their condition. The study seeks to determine if regions of patellar tendon pathology exhibit distinct DTI parameters compared to healthy tendon regions. This research represents a pioneering effort to evaluate DTI as a potential biomarker for optimizing treatment strategies for patellar tendon injuries.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 18 or older with confirmed patellar tendon injuries and current symptoms of patellar tendinopathy.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of invasive procedures on the patellar tendon or contraindications to MRI or neuromuscular electric stimulation may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic and treatment approaches for patients with patellar tendon injuries.
How similar studies have performed: While this approach using DTI is novel, previous studies have shown promising results in using imaging techniques to assess tendon health.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 or older * Have patellar tendon injury as confirmed through subjective report, clinical examination, and ultrasound by an experienced physical therapist * Patellar tendinopathy group must present with current symptoms of patellar tendinopathy * Control group must have no history of patellar tendon injury Exclusion Criteria: * Participants with a history of invasive procedures other than bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) autograft harvest to the patellar tendon or extensor mechanism * Participants with history of contralateral BPTB autograft harvest, or ACLR using any other graft type * Participants with contraindications to MRI * Participants with contraindications to NMES
Where this trial is running
Madison, Wisconsin
- University of Wisconsin - Madison — Madison, Wisconsin, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Bryan Heiderscheit, PT, PhD — University of Wisconsin, Madison
- Study coordinator: Jacob Bishop
- Email: bishop@ortho.wisc.edu
- Phone: 608-301-5589
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Patellar Tendinopathy, Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction