MR imaging of the sacral plexus: normal findings

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Neuroimaging
• Anatomy

Background:

• The sacral plexus, comprising sacral nerves, is crucial for lower limb function.
• Accurate imaging of the sacral plexus is challenging due to its complex anatomy and proximity to other structures.
• Computed tomography (CT) has limitations in differentiating individual sacral nerves and the plexus from surrounding tissues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging appearance of the sacral plexus.
• To highlight the advantages of MR imaging in evaluating the sacral plexus anatomy.
• To aid in the accurate localization of sacral plexus abnormalities.

Main Methods:

• This pictorial essay reviews MR imaging of the sacral plexus.
• Cross-sectional imaging techniques are discussed, with a focus on MR imaging.
• Anatomical relationships in multiple planes are examined.

Main Results:

• MR imaging provides higher contrast resolution than CT, allowing for detailed visualization of the sacral plexus.
• MR imaging consistently demonstrates the neural components of the sacral plexus and their relationship with gluteal vessels.
• The anatomical course from the sacrum to the greater sciatic foramen is clearly depicted with MR imaging.

Conclusions:

• MR imaging is superior to CT for detailed evaluation of the sacral plexus, including both intradural and extradural components.
• Understanding the multiplanar anatomy of the sacral plexus on MR imaging is essential for accurate diagnosis of pathologies.
• MR imaging facilitates precise localization of abnormalities affecting the sacral plexus.