Use of an elastographic method for evaluating the rheological properties of the soft tissues of human extremities normally and in disordered peripheral lymph circulation
Sapuntsov, L.E.; Mitrofanova, S.I.; Savchenko, T.V.
Biulleten' Eksperimental'noi Biologii i Meditsiny 88(12): 740-741
1979
ISSN/ISBN: 0365-9615 PMID: 519010 Document Number: 152104
The elastogram method for measuring the mechanical force of a muscle's response to external pressure is described. A formula was elaborated for the calculation of the moment when the elastogram attains a stationary level. Elastograms of posterior shin muscles were obtained from healthy persons and patients with edematous extremities and compared. In edematous soft tissues, the stationary level was not observed until after 5 or 6 pressings. Seven days after lymphovenous anastomosis was performed, the patient's elastogram was similar to that of a healthy person. Elastograms could be used for observing changes in edematous muscle tissue during treatment.