Contraction characteristics of the triceps surae in muscular diseases assessed by 3D dynamic imaging with synchronized electrical stimulation

Accelerated three-dimensional. three-directional dynamic acquisition of muscle contraction during electrical muscle stimulation was applied on a cohort of 10 patients with metabolic diseases affecting the muscles and 14 healthy controls. Maximum strain and contraction rates were calculated on the three muscles of the triceps surae. The strain and the buildup rate (rate to reach maximum strain) showed a clear trend for the differentiation of patients and volunteers, especially in the Soleus muscle. In conclusion, dynamic muscle MRI during electrical stimulation is a promising marker for muscle health in muscular diseases.