Tendotonometry allows noninvasive in vivo biomechanical evaluation of the patellar tendon in sedated dogs in a study assessing intrauser variability.

Myotonometry is a feasible, reliable tool for noninvasive biomechanical assessment of the canine patellar tendon.

This prospective clinical feasibility study evaluated the use of a myotonometer (digital palpation device) for noninvasive, in vivo biomechanical assessment of the patellar tendon (PT) in sedated dogs. Twenty client-owned dogs with no history of pelvic limb lameness and radiographically normal stifles were enrolled between September and December 2025. A single user performed two measurement series of five individual measurements on each PT, collecting 400 total tendotonometric measurements assessing tone, stiffness, elasticity, relaxation, and creep. No adverse events were recorded during the study. Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences between measurement series within each limb or between left and right sides. Intraobserver repeatability was rated good to excellent between series, while repeatability between contralateral sides was moderate to poor, suggesting that bilateral comparisons should be interpreted cautiously. The study establishes the feasibility and user reliability of tendotonometry in the clinical veterinary setting using the canine PT as a model soft tissue. This technique offers a rapid, objective, and noninvasive alternative to existing biomechanical evaluation methods. The authors propose that tendotonometry could be extended beyond the PT to assess tendon repair and healing, soft tissue reconstruction outcomes, and treatment responses in neuromuscular disorders. This study represents an important first step in validating a novel diagnostic modality for orthopedic soft tissue evaluation in veterinary patients.

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