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Skeletal Radiology

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01-04-2012 | Scientific Article

Diagnosing ulnar neuropathy at the elbow using magnetic resonance neurography

Authors: Nayela N. Keen, Cynthia T. Chin, John W. Engstrom, David Saloner, Lynne S. Steinbach

Published in: Skeletal Radiology | Issue 4/2012

Abstract

Introduction

Early diagnosis of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow is important. Magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) images peripheral nerves. We evaluated the usefulness of elbow MRN in diagnosing ulnar neuropathy at the elbow.

Methods

The MR neurograms of 21 patients with ulnar neuropathy were reviewed retrospectively. MRN was performed prospectively on 10 normal volunteers. The MR neurograms included axial T1 and axial T2 fat-saturated and/or axial STIR sequences. The sensitivity and specificity of MRN in detecting ulnar neuropathy were determined.

Results

The mean ulnar nerve size in the symptomatic and normal groups was 0.12 and 0.06 cm² (P < 0.001). The mean relative signal intensity in the symptomatic and normal groups was 2.7 and 1.4 (P < 0.01). When using a size of 0.08 cm², sensitivity was 95% and specificity was 80%.

Discussion

Ulnar nerve size and signal intensity were greater in patients with ulnar neuropathy. MRN is a useful test in evaluating ulnar neuropathy at the elbow.

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Title: Diagnosing ulnar neuropathy at the elbow using magnetic resonance neurography
Authors: Nayela N. Keen
Cynthia T. Chin
John W. Engstrom
David Saloner
Lynne S. Steinbach
Publication date: 01-04-2012
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Skeletal Radiology / Issue 4/2012
Print ISSN: 0364-2348
Electronic ISSN: 1432-2161
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00256-011-1251-y

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Diagnosing ulnar neuropathy at the elbow using magnetic resonance neurography

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Discussion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Discussion

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