Emerging technologies in neuromuscular ultrasound

Abstract

Neuromuscular ultrasound is an accepted and valuable element in the evaluation of peripheral nerve and muscle disease. However, ultrasound has several limitations to consider, including operator dependency and lack of a viable contrast agent. Fortunately, new technological advances show promise in resolving these issues. Ultrahigh resolution ultrasound enables imaging of the nerve at the fascicular level. Shear wave elastography imaging can provide measures of tissue stiffness that can act as a surrogate measure of nerve and muscle health. Photoacoustic imaging may overcome neuromuscular ultrasound's current lack of contrast agents to detect inflammation and other functional changes within nerve and muscle, while artificial intelligence stands to address operator dependency and improve diagnostic imaging. The basic principles of each of these technologies are discussed along with current research and potential future applications in neuromuscular imaging. K E Y W O R D S artificial intelligence, elastography, high resolution ultrasound, neuromuscular ultrasound, photoacoustic imaging

Shear wave elastography of the radial nerve in healthy subjects

“…It can also be used to evaluate the mechanical properties of tissues. [5][6][7][8][9] Shear wave elastography (SWE) is one of two main types of elastography used to evaluate the neuromuscular system. In the first type (strain elastography), mild probe compression causes tissue displacement.…”

Sural Nerve Size in Fibromyalgia Syndrome: Study on Variables Associated With Cross-Sectional Area

“…The current last-generation ultrasound machines also allow an excellent definition of nerve structures, even if they are millimetric in size ( 10 ). In the field of peripheral nerve diseases, ultrasound (US) is increasingly accepted diagnostic technique and innovative fields of research in this area are opening up ( 11 ).…”

“Why don't you have a look?” The value of incorporating neuromuscular ultrasound in routine clinical practice

“…In this respect, we were encouraged by the 2016 release of the revised Dutch guideline for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), and since then the number of ultrasound studies for CTS has nearly doubled each year 18 . Scientifically, further supporting the diagnostic value of ultrasound with solid evidence and using scoring systems or artificial intelligence for easier image interpretation will help practitioners gain confidence in the use of this technique 3,19 …”