This parameter assesses the texture and homogeneity of individual cross-sections of the tendon as well as the similarity between consecutive slices. A tendon is considered organized when there is a longitudinal, continuous alignment of fibers. The neighboring fibers form a cohesive whole.
In a healthy tendon, there is a continuous arrangement of fibers without any interruptions in their continuity. The tendon appears as a homogeneous structure throughout its cross-section and its course can be easily traced.
In surgically treated tendons, the fiber arrangement may resemble a “braid.” If the surgically treated tendon shows a structured reconstruction of fiber continuity and maintains homogeneity in its structure, it will be classified as a tendon with mild changes.
Assessment scale of changes in corresponding MRI images:
| Normal state | Mild changes | Moderate changes | Severe changes |
| Uniform and organized tendon throughout the cross-section; similarity between consecutive cross-sections maintained; no prior injury or surgery | Mild inhomogeneities and disruptions in tendon cross-section | Moderate inhomogeneities, disruption in tendon organization in the cross-section; dissimilarity between consecutive cross-sections | Severe inhomogeneities, lack of organization; dissimilarity between consecutive cross-sections |
For manual radiological assessment, we recommend a slow review of the sequence of images. A tendon is considered organized when there is a longitudinal, continuous alignment of fibers and the neighboring fibers form a cohesive whole.