MR neurography has become the modality of choice to image the peripheral nerves of the upper extremity. This talk will provide a comprehensive overview from a European perspective.
Imaging of the peripheral nerves of the upper extremity needs the knowledge of the special anatomy of the nerves. It also needs the special knowledge about the innervation pattern of the muscles of the upper extremity. Based on the innervation pattern and, in case of neuropathies, the denervation pattern, the level of nerve injury can be determined. In addition, the knowledge of normal findings in the upper extremity, such as the normally slightly elevated T2 signal of the ulnar nerve in the cubital tunnel, is mandatory to not overcall MRI findings.
The European perspective of imaging the nerves in the upper extremity might not be very much different from the non-European approach. However, my personal impression is, that European radiologists tend to use more gadolinium enhanced exams while being less in favor with diffusion tensor imaging.
This lecture will provide an overview of the approach to image the peripheral nerves of the upper extremity, will show some typical clinical cases, and will outline the European perspective.