Related Experiment Videos
Ultrasonography of peripheral nerves
C Martinoli1, G Serafini, S Bianchi
1Servizio di Radiologia, Ospedale di Santa Corona, Savona, Italy.
Journal of the Peripheral Nervous System : JPNS
|January 1, 1996
Summary
High-frequency ultrasound effectively visualizes peripheral nerves, aiding in diagnosing nerve abnormalities from trauma, entrapment, and tumors. This noninvasive imaging technique shows promise for future nerve lesion diagnosis and management.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Neurology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Peripheral nerves can be visualized in most patients using high-frequency ultrasound.
- Ultrasound patterns of peripheral nerves correlate with histologic structures, allowing differentiation from tendons.
- This imaging modality offers potential for studying nerve abnormalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the normal ultrasonographic appearance of peripheral nerves.
- To discuss the role of ultrasound in noninvasively imaging peripheral nerve lesions.
- To present ultrasound images of various peripheral nerve pathologies.
Main Methods:
- Sonographic examination of extremities using high-frequency "small-parts" equipment.
- Correlation of ultrasonographic patterns with histologic structures.
- Presentation of a series of ultrasound images depicting diverse pathologic processes.
Main Results:
- Peripheral nerves exhibit a characteristic ultrasonographic pattern.
- Ultrasound can differentiate endoneural from extraneural lesions.
- The technique allows evaluation of lesion extent, consistency, and nerve integrity over time.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasound is a valuable tool for noninvasive assessment of peripheral nerves and their abnormalities.
- The technique aids in diagnosing conditions like trauma, entrapment syndromes, and tumors.
- Further advancements in ultrasound technology will enhance its diagnostic impact on nerve lesions.