Ultrasound Imaging of Disorders of Small Nerves of the Extremities: Less Recognized Locations

J Ultrasound Med. 2019 Nov;38(11):2821-2842. doi: 10.1002/jum.15014. Epub 2019 Apr 25.

Abstract

Ultrasound is a well-proven imaging modality for showing peripheral nerve disorders and guiding perineural injections. The aim of this review is to focus on small peripheral nerve abnormalities, which are usually not recognized by sonologists. In fact, most of these small nerves have a tiny diameter (<2 mm), and their anatomy is less familiar. We describe the most common causes of small peripheral nerve disorders, providing an accurate description of their anatomic locations and relationships with adjacent structures; we also focus on technical hints that may help in their evaluation.

Keywords: high frequency; nerves; neuroma; trauma; ultrasound.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Extremities / diagnostic imaging*
  • Extremities / innervation*
  • Humans
  • Peripheral Nerves / diagnostic imaging
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Ultrasonography / methods*