[Imaging of enthesopathies of the ligamentum patellae in athletes. Echography and computerized telethermography].

The authors examine the diagnostic value of two non-invasive techniques--i.e. ultrasound and computerized teletermography--in the diagnosis of patellar enthesopathies. Such a pathology is quite frequent in young athletes, at various stages. The patients were grouped in two categories, according to their age when the trauma occurred, and to the peculiarities of both enthesopathic localization and imaging. The use of both techniques, either one prevailing over the other according to the different evolutive phases of enthesopathies, provides useful information as to detecting and determining the disease. Finally, the authors recommend a combined use of these techniques, especially in young athletes, possibly avoiding conventional X-rays.