The clinical application of high resolution ultrasound in upper limb nerve injuries

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the diagnostic value of high resolution ultrasonography in upper limb nerve injuries. Methods Thirty-ong patients who were diagnosed with single nerve injury of the upper limb were divided into surgical treatment group and conservative treatment group according to the ultrasonographic findings. The surgical treatment group ( 19 cases) underwent radial nerve exploration and repair. Intraoperative findings were used to verify the accuracy of preoperative ultrasonographic diagnosis. Patients in the conservative treatment group (12 cases) and surgical treatment group postoperatively received oral administration of neurotrophic medicines and regular follow-up of with high resolution ultrasound examination. Results The ultrasonographic images of the conservative treatment group showed that the course of the nerve was curving,epineurial structure was still intact, and there was local edema. Preoperative ultrasonographic images of the surgical treatment group showed that the ultragenic signals of the nerve was completely or partially interrupted. The lesion site was hypoechogenic or non-echogenic. The diameter of the proximal nerve end was increased. Surgical exploration confirmed the accuracy of ultrasonographic diagnosis in 15 cases, with an accuracy rate of 78.9%. In the conservative treatment group, 10 patients had good nerve function recovery, while 2 cases had poor recovery and went on for surgical treatment. Conclusion High resolution ultrasound examination has a good clinical value in diagnosis of upper extremity peripheral nerve injuries. It is of guiding significance for treatment and follow-up. Key words: Ultrasonography; Peripheral nerves; Wounds and injuries