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Published in: European Radiology 3/2010

01-03-2010 | Musculoskeletal

Anatomical study of phrenic nerve using ultrasound

Authors: Clarissa Canella, Xavier Demondion, Arnaud Delebarre, Antoine Moraux, Hervé Cotten, Anne Cotten

Published in: European Radiology | Issue 3/2010

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Abstract

Purpose

To demonstrate whether ultrasonography may allow a precise assessment of the course and relations of the phrenic nerve in its cervical portion.

Methods

This study, initially undertaken in five cadavers, was followed by high-resolution ultrasonographic study in 20 volunteers (40 nerves) by two radiologists in consensus. The location, course and relations of the phrenic nerve to the adjacent anatomical structures were analysed.

Results

The phrenic nerve could be nicely identified through the majority of its course by high-resolution ultrasonography. Useful anatomic landmarks for the detection of the nerve could be defined; these include the transverse cervical and ascending cervical arteries. Some anatomical variations were observed.

Conclusion

Knowledge of the nerve’s precise location, which may demonstrate individual variations, may have useful clinical applications.
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Metadata
Title
Anatomical study of phrenic nerve using ultrasound
Authors
Clarissa Canella
Xavier Demondion
Arnaud Delebarre
Antoine Moraux
Hervé Cotten
Anne Cotten
Publication date
01-03-2010
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
European Radiology / Issue 3/2010
Print ISSN: 0938-7994
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1084
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00330-009-1579-z

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