Update on Ultrasound-Guided Interventional Procedures on Peripheral Nerves

Semin Musculoskelet Radiol. 2016 Nov;20(5):453-460. doi: 10.1055/s-0036-1594282. Epub 2016 Dec 21.

Abstract

This article is a practical review update on ultrasound (US)-guided interventional procedures on peripheral nerves. Technical considerations, biopsy techniques, and some examples of injections are described. US is considered a safe imaging guidance for interventional procedures, due to its high spatial resolution and the possibility to image the needle and inject drugs in real time. US-guided injections could be considered a diagnostic and therapeutic option in the most common neuropathy, before or as an alternative to surgery. US-guided injection techniques in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, meralgia paresthetica, and Morton neuroma are reviewed. US-guided injections of the iliohypogastric, ilioinguinal, genitofemoral, and pudendal nerve are also illustrated. Knowledge of anatomy is crucial; therefore a brief description of the courses of anatomical nerves and clinical notes are also reported. Treatment of stump neuromas treatment was excluded.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy
  • Humans
  • Injections
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / therapy*
  • Ultrasonography, Interventional*