Neuroimaging clinics of North America
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Feb 2014
ReviewMagnetic resonance neurography of peripheral nerve tumors and tumorlike conditions.
Peripheral nerve enlargement may be seen in multiple conditions including hereditary or inflammatory neuropathies, sporadic or syndromic peripheral nerve sheath tumors, perineurioma, posttraumatic neuroma, and intraneural ganglion. Malignancies such as neurolymphoma, intraneural metastases, or sarcomas may also affect the peripheral nervous system and result in nerve enlargement. The imaging appearance and differentiating factors become especially relevant in the setting of tumor syndromes such as neurofibromatosis type 1, neurofibromatosis type 2, and schwannomatosis. This article reviews the typical magnetic resonance neurography imaging appearances of neurogenic as well as nonneurogenic neoplasms and tumorlike lesions of peripheral nerves, with emphasis on distinguishing factors.
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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.
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Feb 2014
ReviewAnatomic considerations, nomenclature, and advanced cross-sectional imaging techniques for visualization of the cranial nerve segments by MR imaging.
Various methods of cross-sectional imaging are used for visualization of the cranial nerves, relying heavily on MR imaging. The success of the MR imaging sequences for visualization of cranial nerves depends on their anatomic context at the point of evaluation. ⋯ A variety of approaches are advocated and variations in equipment and terminology cloud the field. This article proposes a segmental classification and corresponding nomenclature for imaging evaluation of the cranial nerves and reviews technical considerations and applicable literature.
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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.
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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.