Musculoskeletal ultrasound for peripheral nerve lesions

Kara M., Ozcakar L., De Muynck M., Tok F., Vanderstraeten G.

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL AND REHABILITATION MEDICINE, vol.48, no.4, pp.665-674, 2012 (SCI-Expanded) identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Review
  • Volume: 48 Issue: 4
  • Publication Date: 2012
  • Journal Name: EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL AND REHABILITATION MEDICINE
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.665-674
  • Keywords: Peripheral nerves, Ultrasonography, Wound and injuries, Neoplasms, CARPAL-TUNNEL-SYNDROME, HIGH-RESOLUTION SONOGRAPHY, CROSS-SECTIONAL AREA, CUBITAL TUNNEL, ULNAR NERVE, MEDIAN NERVE, PERONEAL NEUROPATHY, DIAGNOSIS, ULTRASONOGRAPHY, PATIENT
  • Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Although the combination of a detailed physical examination and a subsequent electrodiagnostic study is used for the diagnosis of peripheral nerve disorders, prompt imaging may also be necessary in daily practice. In this regard, as having higher spatial resolution, and being a faster, more cost-effective and dynamic study; ultrasound (US) has become a very convenient first-line imaging modality for the diagnosis, follow-up and treatment (i.e. guiding interventions or planning for surgery) of peripheral nerve pathologies. Yet, using the probe of US to "sono-auscultate" the peripheral nerves is indisputably paramount for unmasking the whole scenario of injury. Likewise, in this review, we will try to exemplify the role of US for the diagnosis and follow-up of peripheral nerve disorders in clinical practice.