[Ultrasound-guided interventions on the peripheral nervous system]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Medical Imaging
• Interventional Procedures

Background:

• Peripheral nervous system interventions historically lacked visual guidance, leading to suboptimal outcomes and potential nerve damage.
• Advancements in high-resolution ultrasound have revolutionized the approach to peripheral nerve procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the application of high-resolution ultrasound in peripheral nerve interventions.
• To highlight the improved safety and efficacy of ultrasound-guided procedures.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing high-resolution ultrasound for functional visualization of peripheral nerves.
• Implementing ultrasound-guided techniques for anesthesia, anti-inflammatory treatments, and neurolysis.
• Employing contrast medium for guided biopsies and specific treatments like phenol instillation for neuromas.

Main Results:

• Successful visualization and treatment of diverse peripheral nerves, including the brachial plexus, limb nerves, and trunk nerves.
• Feasibility of contrast medium-guided biopsies for intraneural and perineural masses.
• Effective treatment of stump neuromas using phenol instillation.

Conclusions:

• High-resolution ultrasound enables reliable and safe diagnosis and treatment of peripheral nerve pathologies.
• Ultrasound guidance significantly increases success rates and decreases adverse event rates compared to non-visualized methods.