Update in the evaluation of peripheral nerves by MRI, from morphological to functional neurography

Abstract

Imaging studies of peripheral nerves have increased considerably in the last ten years. In addition to the classical and still valid study by ultrasound, new neurographic techniques developed from conventional morphological sequences (including 3D isotropic studies with fat suppression) are making it possible to assess different peripheral nerves and plexuses, including small sensory and/or motor branches, with great precision. Diffusion-weighted sequences and diffusion tensor imaging have opened a new horizon in neurographic studies. This new approach provides morphological and functional information about the internal structure and pathophysiology of the peripheral nerves and diseases that involve them. This update reviews the different MR neurography techniques available for the study of the peripheral nerves, with special emphasis on new sequences based on diffusion.

Keywords: Diffusion; Diffusion Tensor Imaging; Difusión; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Nervio periférico; Peripheral nerve; Resonancia magnética; Tensor de difusión.