MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING PERFUSION TECHNIQUE IN THE EVALUATION OF ACHILLES TENDON INJURY IN RABBITS

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) in the experimental model of Achilles tendon injury. Methods: Twelve white male adults New Zealand rabbits were divided into two groups, a group with resection of the central portion of the Achilles tendon (n = 8) and a control group (n = 4). Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) was performed 4 weeks after the surgical procedure, followed by histological analysis of the tendons. Results: The main finding of this study was the difference (p