MR Neurography of Lower Extremity Sports-Related Nerve Injuries.

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Neurology
• Radiology

Background:

• Lower extremity peripheral nerve injuries disrupt sensorimotor function, impacting athletic performance.
• Current electrodiagnostic studies have limitations in sensitivity, operator dependency, and lesion localization, especially for partial or multifocal injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the clinical utility of MR neurography in diagnosing sports-related peripheral nerve injuries.
• To emphasize MR neurography's role in managing these injuries and iatrogenic complications post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical cases and literature on MR neurography for lower extremity peripheral nerve injuries in athletes.
• Comparison of MR neurography findings with electrodiagnostic studies and surgical outcomes.

Main Results:

• MR neurography demonstrates high sensitivity and specificity in identifying the site and nature of peripheral nerve injuries.
• It effectively visualizes partial, multifocal, and iatrogenic nerve injuries, overcoming limitations of electrodiagnostic tests.
• Improved diagnostic accuracy facilitates targeted management strategies.

Conclusions:

• MR neurography is a valuable tool for the diagnosis and management of sports-related peripheral nerve injuries.
• It enhances the understanding of complex nerve injuries, including post-surgical complications, aiding in athlete rehabilitation and return to play.