Choosing the right imaging for the diagnostics and assessment of thecourse of peripheral nerve injuries

Background: Nerve injuries are a frequent problem in routine clinical practice and require intensive interdisciplinary care.Objective: The current status of imaging to confirm the diagnosis of nerve injuries is described. The role of high-resolution ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the diagnostics and follow-up of peripheral nerve injuries is elaborated.Material and methods: Review of the current state of imaging to confirm the diagnosis of nerve injuries.Results: Depending on the suspected site of damage, the primary domain of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging (MR neurography) is injuries in the region of the spine, nerve roots, brachial plexus and lumbar plexus, pelvis and proximal thigh. In contrast, in other peripheral nerve lesions of the extremities the advantages of high-resolution nerve ultrasound in a dynamic setting predominate. The MR neurography is indicated here, especially in the frequent bottleneck syndromes and only in very isolated and selected cases.Conclusion: In addition to a correct anatomical assignment, the timely decision for a possible intervention and the appropriate concomitant treatment are an important basis for a favorable prognosis of nerve injuries. Imaging techniques should therefore be used early in the diagnostics and follow-up controls of peripheral nerve injuries.