Assessment methods of vastus lateralis muscle architecture using panoramic ultrasound: a new approach, test-retest reliability and measurement error

Abstract Extended-field-of-view ultrasonography is a valid alternative to determine the dimensions of skeletal striated muscle; however, some factors may influence final measurement. The aim this study was test-retest reliability and measurement error vastus lateralis muscle architecture variables through internal anatomical landmarks compare three fixed determined points using extended-field-of-view ultrasonography. Twelve young (24 ± 6 years) adult university male students participated in study. Images were obtained muscle. Measurements made for thickness (MT), fascicle length (FL), pennation angle (FA) method that identifies landmarks. MT also measured at predetermined distances 2 cm proximal, distal. One-way ANOVA with repeated measures did not identify any significant differences all measured. Typical centimeters (cm) or degrees (º), coefficient variation percentage (%) intraclass correlation = 0.07 cm, 2.93%, 0.964; FL 0.31 2.89%, 0.947; FA 0.92°, 4.08%, 0.942; proximal 0.10 3.77%, 0.910; 0.27 9.66%, 0.576; distal 0.35 19.76%, 0.564. MT, showed high low error. Internal proved be more reliable presented smaller errors when compared method.