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The current role of diagnostic imaging in the preoperative workup for refractory neonatal brachial plexus palsy

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Abstract

Introduction

Despite recent improvements in perinatal care, the incidence of neonatal brachial plexus palsy (NBPP) remains relatively common. CT myelography is currently considered to be the optimal imaging modality for evaluating nerve root integrity. Recent improvements in MRI techniques have made it an attractive alternative to evaluate nerve root avulsions (preganglionic injuries).

Aim

We demonstrate the utility of MRI for the evaluation of normal and avulsed spinal nerve roots. We also show the utility of ultrasound in providing useful preoperative evaluation of the postganglionic brachial plexus in patients with NBPP.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Radiology, University of Michigan, 1500 E. Medical Center Dr., Room B1-132A TC, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5302, USA

    Deepak K. Somashekar, Michael A. DiPietro, Mohannad Ibrahim & Hemant A. Parmar

  2. Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5302, USA

    Thomas J. Wilson, Jacob R. Joseph & Lynda J-S. Yang

Authors
  1. Deepak K. Somashekar
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  2. Thomas J. Wilson
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  3. Michael A. DiPietro
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  4. Jacob R. Joseph
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  5. Mohannad Ibrahim
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  6. Lynda J-S. Yang
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  7. Hemant A. Parmar
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Hemant A. Parmar.

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Somashekar, D.K., Wilson, T.J., DiPietro, M.A. et al. The current role of diagnostic imaging in the preoperative workup for refractory neonatal brachial plexus palsy. Childs Nerv Syst 32, 1393–1397 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-016-3106-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-016-3106-2

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