Shear Wave Elastography in Assessing Patellar and Quadriceps Tendon Stiffness: A Focused Literature Review

Objective

To critically evaluate the clinical utility of shear wave elastography (SWE), in quantifying stiffness of the patellar and quadriceps tendons, with an emphasis on measurement consistency, reported stiffness patterns, and treatment response. Materials and Methods: A structured literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (2016-2025), which identified studies employing SWE on either tendon. Eligible studies evaluated measurement reliability, baseline stiffness values, or changes associated with injury or treatment.