Introduction
Brachial plexus trauma related to gunshot (GS) injury requires early examination and characterization to ensure appropriate treatment. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be contraindicated when there are metal fragments in a patient's body. Ultrasound (US) may present an alternative to imaging GS‐related brachial plexus injury.
Methods
Three patients with GS‐related brachial plexus injury who underwent US imaging evaluation at our institution were identified. A retrospective review of the patients’ medical records was performed.
Results
US characterization of nerve abnormalities after GS injury to the brachial plexus was in agreement with electrodiagnostic and intraoperative findings.
Discussion
Information from the US reports was useful in preparation for brachial plexus reconstruction surgery. As such, US has unique utility when MRI cannot be performed. US imaging can provide useful characterization of the brachial plexus after GS injury when performed by an experienced operator. Muscle Nerve 59:707–711, 2019
ObjectiveWe evaluated the performance of ultrasound in the detection of neuropathy of the suprascapular nerve (SSN), long thoracic nerve (LTN), spinal accessory nerve (SAN), and phrenic nerve and compared this performance with MRI.MethodsA retrospective review of 56 patients who had undergone ultrasound imaging of the SSN, LTN, SAN, and phrenic nerve was performed. Diagnoses made by ultrasound, MRI, EMG reports, and clinical and operative notes were recorded.ResultsUltrasound was successful in visualizing nerves in the neck in the overwhelming majority of cases. Sonographic findings were typically in agreement with MRI and clinical findings.ConclusionUltrasound is effective in the visualization and diagnostic evaluation of the SSN, LTN, SAN, and phrenic nerve.Classification of evidenceThis study provides Class IV evidence that ultrasound can effectively visualize and diagnose neuropathy of the SSN, LTN, SAN, and phrenic nerve in the neck.
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