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Peroneal nerve palsy associated with knee luxation: evaluation by sonography--initial experiences
Hannes Gruber1, Siegfried Peer, Romed Meirer
1Clinics of Radiodiagnostics, Department of Radiology I, Innsbruck Medical University, Anichstrasse 35, Innsbruck, Tirol 6020, Austria. hannes.gruber@uibk.ac.at
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|October 26, 2005
Summary
Sonography can identify peroneal nerve injuries after knee dislocation, detecting increased nerve size and damage. This imaging technique aids surgeons in determining the necessity of surgical nerve repair.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Neurology
- Radiology
Background:
- Traumatic knee dislocation can cause peroneal nerve injury in up to 25% of cases.
- Peroneal nerve lesions are often initially overlooked, potentially leading to irreversible neural damage.
- Prompt surgical intervention may be required for significant nerve injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of sonography in identifying peroneal nerve pathology.
- To determine if sonography can guide decisions regarding surgical nerve repair.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study involving nine patients with peroneal nerve palsy post-knee dislocation.
- Sonographic examination of peroneal nerves in affected patients and 11 healthy volunteers.
- Statistical analysis to compare findings and assess significance.
Main Results:
- Healthy peroneal nerves had a mean cross-sectional area of 0.18 cm².
- Injured nerves showed significantly increased cross-sectional area (mean 0.7 cm², p < 0.05).
- Key sonographic findings included caliber changes, visible nerve stumps, and soft-tissue abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- Sonography effectively visualizes neural and extraneural pathology in peroneal nerve injuries.
- The imaging modality helps define the exact level and extent of nerve lesions.
- Sonography is a valuable tool for surgical decision-making in traumatic knee dislocations with suspected peroneal nerve injury.
