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Obrien Needle Test

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Obrien Needle Test
Obrien Needle Test[1]
Demonstration of a normal Obrien's needle test. On the left with passive dorseflexion and on the right with passive plantarflexion[2]
  • O'brien's needle test
  • Obriens Needle Test
  • O'Brien's Test for Achilles Tendon
  • O’Brien Test (Achilles Tendon)
  • Achilles Needle Test
  • Needle Test for Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Achilles Tendon Needle Test
  • Percutaneous Needle Test for Achilles Tendon Rupture

Purpose

  • Evaluate the integrity of the Achilles Tendon
  • Note: this is a historical test not really used anymore, first described by O’Brien in 1984[2]

Description

  • A 25 gauge needle is inserted perpendicular to the calf muscle
    • Medial to midline, 10 cm proximal to superior border of calcenus
    • Needle tip should be in substance of achilles tendon
  • Normal
    • Motion of the needle hub in the direction opposite that of the tendon during passive dorsiflexion and plantarflexion

Pathology

Evidence

Achilles Tendon Rupture

  • Maffulli et al when patient is under general anesthesia[3]
    • Sensitivity: 80%
    • Positive Predictive Value: 85%

See Also

References

  1. ↑ Hong-Geun, J. U. N. G., ed. Foot and ankle disorders: an illustrated reference. Springer, 2016.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 O’Brien T. The Needle Test for Complete Rupture of the Achilles Tendon. J Bone and Joint Surgery, 66-a (7), 1984.
  3. ↑ Maffulli, Nicola. "The clinical diagnosis of subcutaneous tear of the Achilles tendon." The American journal of sports medicine 26.2 (1998): 266-270.
Created by:
John Kiel on 17 May 2021 15:32:01
Authors:
Last edited:
14 March 2026 14:15:36
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