Structural changes within the tendon refer to changes in the architecture of collagen fibers that disrupt their proper arrangement and functioning. They occur as a result of tendon trauma or chronic metabolic disorders such as hypercholesterolemia as well as rheumatic conditions like arthritis. The presence of these changes can also be a consequence of previous surgical procedures involving the tendon.
Structural changes within the tendon include complete and partial tendon ruptures as well as focal or diffuse degenerative changes with collagen defects in their structure.
Structural changes manifest as disruptions in the tendon’s structural homogeneity and cause increased MR signal intensity in T1, T2 and gradient sequences.
Assessment scale of changes in corresponding MRI images:
| Normal state | Mild changes | Moderate changes | Severe changes |
| No structural changes within the tendon | Mild structural changes within the tendon | Moderate structural changes within the tendon | Severe structural changes within the tendon |
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