New approaches in imaging of the brachial plexus

High-Resolution 3T MR Neurography of the Brachial Plexus and Its Branches, with Emphasis on 3D Imaging

“…Generally, all the brachial plexus studies are performed as unenhanced MRN examinations, unless there is a suspicion of neoplasm, infection, or diffuse polyneuropathy. 3,4,11,13,14 DTI is experimental at this stage. It provides insight into nerve microarchitecture by reconstruction of DTI parametric maps with illustration of the fiber tracts.…”

High-Resolution MRI Evaluation of Neonatal Brachial Plexus Palsy: A Promising Alternative to Traditional CT Myelography

“…To date, however, there are only a few reports contained in the literature examining the utility of MR imaging for nerve root avulsions and none looking specifically at NBPP. [7][8][9][10][11] The reports contain scant imaging examples of nerve root avulsion, and many of the images are not convincingly diagnostic. 12 Most of the reports focus on the use of a heavily T2-weighted 3D sequence, referred to under various names on the basis of the specific manufacturer, such as 3D CISS (constructive interference in steady state), 3D True-FISP (fast imaging with steady-state precession), FIESTA (fast imaging employing steadystate acquisition), and DRIVE (driven equilibrium) sequences.…”

“…12 Most of the reports focus on the use of a heavily T2-weighted 3D sequence, referred to under various names on the basis of the specific manufacturer, such as 3D CISS (constructive interference in steady state), 3D True-FISP (fast imaging with steady-state precession), FIESTA (fast imaging employing steadystate acquisition), and DRIVE (driven equilibrium) sequences. 7 The end goal of these sequences is the same: to create a sequence with very high CSF-to-tissue contrast with elimination of pulsation artifact, to optimally visualize the exiting cervicothoracic nerve roots. 13 Until now, however, there are no studies that unequivocally and consistently demonstrate high-quality images of nerve root avulsion.…”

The Diagnostic Value of CT Myelography, MR Myelography, and Both in Neonatal Brachial Plexus Palsy

“…30,31 Its predictive value for detecting nerve root avulsions has been evaluated [32][33][34][35] and has been found to have similar 36,37 or greater 38 value compared with CT myelography in adults. MR myelography has also been evaluated in neonatal brachial plexus palsy 25,[39][40][41][42][43][44] but is yet to be widely adopted.…”