European journal of neurology : the official journal of the European Federation of Neurological Societies
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Measurement of the cross-sectional area (CSA) of peripheral nerves using ultrasound is useful in the evaluation of focal lesions such as entrapment syndromes and inflammatory polyneuropathies. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of published CSA reference values for lower extremity nerves. ⋯ We provide the first meta-analysis on CSA reference values for the lower extremities with no or low heterogeneity of reported CSA values in all nerve sites except tibial nerve at popliteal fossa. Our data facilitate the goal of an international standardized evaluation protocol.
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Measurement of the cross-sectional area (CSA) of cervical nerve roots using ultrasound is useful in the evaluation of inflammatory polyneuropathies, and measurement of CSA of the vagal nerve might give information about involvement of the autonomic nervous system. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of published CSA reference values for cervical nerve roots and vagal nerve. ⋯ We provide the first meta-analysis on CSA reference values for the cervical nerve roots and the vagal nerve, with no heterogeneity of reported CSA values at all nerve sites. Our data facilitate the goal of an international standardized evaluation protocol.