Methodologies and MR Parameters in Quantitative Magnetic Resonance Neurography: A Scoping Review Protocol

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Peripheral Nerve Imaging
• Quantitative MRI

Background:

• Magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) traditionally uses qualitative imaging for peripheral neuropathies.
• Quantitative MRN, employing various MR parameters as biomarkers, is an emerging area.
• A comprehensive synthesis of quantitative MRN methodologies and normative values is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review of peer-reviewed literature on quantitative MRN of human peripheral nerves.
• To map existing methodologies and normative values.
• To identify research gaps and inform future directions in quantitative MRN.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search across MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus.
• Screening of titles, abstracts, and full texts by at least two independent reviewers.
• Data extraction and presentation in tabular/diagrammatic form, following PRISMA-ScR guidelines.

Main Results:

• The review will map the landscape of quantitative MRN techniques and reported normative values.
• It will identify variations in methodologies across different anatomical locations and neuropathy types.
• Gaps in the current literature and research priorities will be highlighted.

Conclusions:

• This scoping review will provide a foundational overview of quantitative MRN for peripheral nerves.
• It aims to standardize reporting and guide future research in this developing field.
• The findings will assist clinicians and researchers in assessing and monitoring peripheral neuropathies.