Ultrasonography of cervical nerve roots: cross-sectional reference values according to age

The aim of this study is to describe the normal cross-sectional area (CSA) and appearance of cervical nerve roots in ultrasound, correlating it to age and other patient somatic parameters.

One hundred healthy volunteers were included. We aimed to achieve uniform representation throughout all age groups. Ultrasound of the cervical nerve roots was performed bilaterally. CSA and margins description were obtained.

C5 nerve, 8.32 ± 2.30; C6 nerve, 11.88 ± 3.36; C7 nerve, 12.79 ± 3.85; C8 nerve, 11.20 ± 3.45. Significant correlation between CSA and age was demonstrated, but not for body mass index. Blurred margins were present in up to 23.71% cervical nerves, more frequently in older individuals and in C7 nerve.

If ultrasound morphology of cervical nerve roots is used as a diagnostic parameter, the normal range of CSA values and percentage of blurred margins according to age should be considered.