Magnetic resonance imaging in brachial plexus injury
F Caranci1, F Briganti, M La Porta
1Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Neuroradiology, Federico II University of Naples, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy. ferdinandocaranci@libero.it
Musculoskeletal Surgery
|August 17, 2013
Summary
Brachial plexus injuries are severe nerve damage in limbs. While obstetric injuries decrease, adult cases rise, requiring tailored treatments like nerve transfers or grafts based on injury type and location.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Brachial plexus injuries are severe nerve damage in extremities.
- Obstetric brachial plexus injuries have decreased, but adult cases are increasing.
- Treatment depends on injury type and location.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diagnosis and treatment of brachial plexus injuries.
- To highlight the role of imaging in surgical planning.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on brachial plexus injury.
- Discussion of diagnostic modalities, including MRI and CT myelography.
- Overview of surgical and non-surgical treatment options.
Main Results:
- Preganglionic avulsions may require nerve transfers (intercostal, accessory, C7).
- Postganglionic avulsions can be surgically repaired with nerve autografts or managed conservatively.
- MRI is crucial for assessing nerve damage location, continuity, and grading for surgical planning.
- CT myelography offers higher spatial resolution for nerve roots but is invasive.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of brachial plexus injuries relies on accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment strategies.
- Advanced imaging, particularly MRI, is essential for preoperative planning and guiding treatment decisions.
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