Abstract
When it comes to examining the brachial plexus, ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI) are complementary investigations. US is well placed for screening most
extraforaminal pathologies, whereas MRI is more sensitive and accurate for specific
clinical indications. For example, MRI is probably the preferred technique for assessment
of trauma because it enables a thorough evaluation of both the intraspinal and extraspinal
elements, although US can depict extraforaminal neural injury with a high level of
accuracy. Conversely, US is probably the preferred technique for examination of neurologic
amyotrophy because a more extensive involvement beyond the brachial plexus is the
norm, although MRI is more sensitive than US for evaluating muscle denervation associated
with this entity. With this synergy in mind, this review highlights the tips for examining
the brachial plexus with US and MRI.
Keywords
brachial plexus - ultrasound - magnetic resonance imaging - inflammation - trauma
