This study shows the possibility of fascicle determination of the median nerve in healthy volunteers and patients with CTS (although probably less accurately) with high-resolution 7 T magnetic resonance imaging, as well as significantly higher T2 values in patients with CTS, which seems to be associated with pathophysiological nerve changes.

This study confirms that the IFCN and the MFCN can be reliably visualized with HRUS throughout the course of these nerves, both in anatomical specimens and in patients.

This study confirms that the DBUN can be reliably visualized over its entire course with HRUS in anatomical specimens and in healthy volunteers. Muscle Nerve 56: 1101-1107, 2017.

PurposeTo evaluate in a prospective study the possibility of visualization and diagnostic assessment of the recurrent motor branch (RMB) of the median nerve with high-resolution ultrasound (HRUS).Materials and methodsHRUS with high-frequency probes (18–22 MhZ) was used to locate the RMB in eight fresh cadaveric hands. To verify correct identification, ink-marking and consecutive dissection were performed. Measurement of the RMB maximum transverse-diameter, an evaluation of the origin from the median nerve and its course in relation to the transverse carpal ligament, was performed in both hands of ten healthy volunteers (n = 20). Cases referred for HRUS examinations for suspected RMB lesions were also assessed.ResultsThe RMB was clearly visible in all anatomical specimens and all volunteers. Dissection confirmed HRUS findings in all anatomical specimens. Mean RMB diameter in volunteers was 0.7 mm ± 0.1 (range, 0.6–1). The RMB originated from the radial aspect in 11 (55%), central aspect in eight (40%) and ulnar aspect in one (5%) hand. Nineteen (95%) extraligamentous courses and one (5%) subligamentous course were detected. Three patients with visible RMB abnormalities on HRUS were identified.ConclusionHRUS is able to reliably visualize the RMB, its variations and pathologies.Key Points• Ultrasound allows visualization of the recurrent motor branch of the median nerve.• Ultrasound may help clinicians to assess patients with recurrent motor branch pathologies.• Patient management may become more appropriate and targeted therapy could be improved.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s00330-016-4671-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Ultrasound is considered an excellent imaging modality to evaluate the nerves of the limbs. The deep peroneal nerve (DPN) is one of the terminal branches of the common peroneal nerve. The DPN may be affected by various disorders, which may be clinically challenging to show. This Pictorial Essay reviews the normal ultrasound anatomy of the DPN and presents disorders that may involve the nerve and its main branches along its course, from proximal to distal.