Neuroimaging clinics of North America
-
Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Feb 2014
ReviewHigh-resolution magnetic resonance neurography in upper extremity neuropathy.
The most common sites of nerve entrapment are in the upper extremity, commonly diagnosed based on clinical findings and electrophysiologic studies. Cross-sectional imaging modalities, such as ultrasonography and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, have been used to enhance diagnostic accuracy and provide anatomic mapping of abnormalities. MR neurography offers multiplanar high-resolution imaging of upper extremity nerves as well as adjacent soft tissues, and provides an objective assessment of the neuromuscular anatomy and related abnormalities. This article reviews the normal 3-T MR neurographic appearance of the upper extremity nerves, and abnormal findings related to injury, entrapment, and other pathologic conditions.
-
Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Feb 2014
ReviewMagnetic resonance neurography research: evaluation of its effectiveness.
Magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) is a specialized technique that is rapidly becoming part of the diagnostic algorithm of peripheral nerve pathology. However, in order for this modality to be considered appropriate, its value compared with current methods of diagnosis should be established. Therefore, radiologists involved in MRN research should use appropriate methodology to evaluate MRN's effectiveness with a multidisciplinary approach. This article reviews the various tiers of research available to assess the clinical value of a diagnostic modality with an emphasis on how to evaluate the impact of MRN on diagnostic thinking and therapeutic decisions.
-
Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Feb 2014
ReviewThe role of magnetic resonance neurography in the postoperative management of peripheral nerve injuries.
Diagnostic limitations exist in the assessment of postoperative nerve regeneration. This article describes the role of available methods, such as clinical assessment, electrophysiologic studies, and magnetic resonance neurography in the postoperative evaluation of peripheral nerve repairs.
-
Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Feb 2014
ReviewHigh-resolution magnetic resonance imaging of the lower extremity nerves.
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the nerves, commonly known as MR neurography is increasingly being used as noninvasive means of diagnosing peripheral nerve disease. High-resolution imaging protocols aimed at imaging the nerves of the hip, thigh, knee, leg, ankle, and foot can demonstrate traumatic or iatrogenic injury, tumorlike lesions, or entrapment of the nerves, causing a potential loss of motor and sensory function in the affected area. A thorough understanding of normal MR imaging and gross anatomy, as well as MR findings in the presence of peripheral neuropathies will aid in accurate diagnosis and ultimately help guide clinical management.
-
The magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) examination is rapidly becoming a part of the diagnostic algorithm of patients with peripheral neuropathy; however, because of the technical demands and the lack of required reading skills, the examination is relatively underutilized and is currently limited to a few tertiary care centers. The radiologists with interest in peripheral nerve imaging should be able to perform and interpret this examination to exploit its potential for widespread use. This article outlines the systematic, stepwise approach to its interpretation and a brief discussion of the imaging pitfalls.