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Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2010; 14(5): 512-522
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1268071
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Traumatic Neuropathies: Spectrum of Imaging Findings and Postoperative Assessment

Alberto Tagliafico1 , Luisa Altafini2 , Isabella Garello2 , Alessandra Marchetti2 , Sergio Gennaro3 , Carlo Martinoli2
  • 1Department of Radiology, National Institute for Cancer Research, Genoa, Italy
  • 2Department of Radiology–DISC, Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
  • 3Department of Neurosurgery, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria San Martino, Genova, Italy
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Publication History

Publication Date:
11 November 2010 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Traumatic injury to peripheral nerves is a significant cause of morbidity and disability. Until reinnervation occurs, electrodiagnostic studies cannot differentiate severe axonotmetic lesions (Sunderland class 4) from complete nerve transection or neurotmesis (Sunderland class 5). This limitation is relevant clinically because in cases of neurotmesis an improved outcome may be achieved with an early surgical repair (within 1 week after trauma). High-resolution ultrasound (US) is an efficient modality to visualize injured nerves and is becoming increasingly important among radiologists and surgeons. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is complementary to high-resolution US, especially in evaluating deep-seated and proximal nerve segments. This article describes the imaging features of traumatic peripheral nerve lesions. The role of diagnostic imaging in stretching injuries, contusion trauma, penetrating wounds, and after surgery is discussed. A multimodality diagnostic approach including physical examination, electrophysiology, and US and MR imaging allows an accurate evaluation of most peripheral nerves. Imaging assessment of peripheral nerves trauma is useful for the diagnosis, follow-up, and postoperative evaluation.

KEYWORDS

Peripheral nerve - trauma - ultrasound - magnetic resonance imaging

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Alberto TagliaficoM.D. 

Department of Radiology, National Institute for Cancer Research

Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy

Email: atagliafico@sirm.org