Isolated tear of the plantaris tendon: ultrasound and MRI appearance.

We report a retrospective analysis of the ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging appearance of five patients with isolated plantaris tendon tears. Both imaging techniques allowed detection of the tear, assessment of its severity and of its location. Compared with magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound resulted in a less expensive and time-consuming evaluation. Isolated plantaris tendon tears can clinically mimic Achilles tendon tears or thrombophlebitis. Unlike these conditions, plantaris tear has a benign outcome and does not need surgical treatment or anticoagulation.