Neuroimaging clinics of North America
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Feb 2004
ReviewThe brachial plexus: normal anatomy, pathology, and MR imaging.
The brachial plexus is the most technically and anatomically challenging area of the peripheral nervous system for diagnostic imaging. Marked improvements in spatial and contrast resolution of plexus images have resulted from the use of phased-array technology and newer MR pulse sequence designs. ⋯ Brachial plexus anatomy and its appearance on multiplanar MR images are reviewed. The morphologic features and MR signal characteristics that have been found useful in distinguishing between normal and abnormal plexus components,and in detecting neuropathic lesions, are addressed in the context of clinical indications for plexus imaging as follows: mass involving the plexus, traumatic injury, entrapment syndrome, posttreatment evaluation, and miscellaneous conditions.
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Feb 2004
ReviewDiagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome: electrodiagnostic and MR imaging evaluation.
In clinically classic carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) without symptoms or signs to suggest other disorders that can mimic CTS, it remains somewhat controversial as to whether performing nerve conduction studies is necessary or cost-effective. MR imaging reliably depicts normal carpal tunnel anatomy. It can also identify pathologic nerve compression and mass lesions, such as ganglion cysts, that compress nerves. ⋯ MR diffusion-weighted imaging of peripheral nerves might prove to be the most sensitive imaging sequence for the detection of early nerve dysfunction. Electrodiagnostic studies are likely to remain the pivotal diagnostic examination in patients with suspected CTS for the foreseeable future. With advances in both software and hardware, however, high-resolution MR imaging of peripheral nerves will become faster, cheaper, and likely more accurate, possibly paving the way for an expanded role in the diagnosis of this common syndrome.
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Feb 2004
ReviewMR neurography: diagnostic utility in the surgical treatment of peripheral nerve disorders.
Advances in MR imaging have improved the visualization of normal and pathologic peripheral nerve structures in various clinical settings. Peripheral nerve imaging has the potential to dramatically change the diagnosis and treatment of peripheral nerve pathology and lead to an improved understanding of peripheral nerve pathophysiology. ⋯ The next major advance in MR imaging of peripheral nerves will likely be the transition from anatomic to physiologic imaging with higher resolution as better phased-array surface coils and higher-field-strength magnets become available. Finally, MR neurography should remain complementary to the clinical examination and electrodiagnostic studies in the evaluation of peripheral nerve disorders.