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Zhang Z, Wang H, Ding X, He S. Immersion ultrasound improves the repeatability of shear-wave elastography for measuring median nerve elasticity. J Orthop Surg Res 2023; 18:618. [PMID: 37612692 PMCID: PMC10464027 DOI: 10.1186/s13018-023-04097-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the factors that influence the measurement of median nerve elasticity, to provide a more reproducible test for the assessment of median nerve elasticity using shear wave elasticity (SWE), and to reduce operator empirical dependence. To compare the repeatability of the median nerve elasticity measurement using immersion SWE with that using contact SWE, analyze the factors affecting SWE measurement, and provide a more repeatable method for doctors without SWE operation experience. METHODS Two doctors without SWE operation experience measured the median nerve mean elastic modulus (Emean) at the same position and at different time points on the right wrist of 58 healthy volunteers using immersion and contact ultrasound methods. The intraobserver and interobserver repeatability of measurements was assessed using the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC), while the repeatability was assessed using the Bland-Altman diagram. RESULTS The intraobserver and interobserver repeatability of the median nerve elasticity measured via contact SWE by inexperienced operators were classified as good, with ICCs of 0.633 (95% CI 0.380-0.783) and 0.552 (95% CI 0.243-0.735), respectively. The intraobserver and interobserver repeatability of the median nerve elasticity measured by immersion SWE were very good, with ICCs of 0.975 (95% CI 0.958-0.985) and 0.942 (95% CI 0.902-0.966), respectively. The intraobserver and interobserver Bland-Altman diagram of median nerve elasticity measured by immersion SWE showed that 98% of the points fell within the 95% limits of agreement. The intraobserver and interobserver Bland-Altman diagram of median nerve elasticity measured by contact SWE showed that 94% of the points fell within the 95% limits of agreement. CONCLUSION Immersion ultrasound can improve the repeatability of median nerve elasticity measurements by inexperienced operators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijun Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Xiaoya Ding
- Department of Ultrasound, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Shu He
- Medical Affairs Department, The Fifth People's Hospital of Chongqing, Chongqing, 400030, China.
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Jerban S, Barrère V, Andre M, Chang EY, Shah SB. Quantitative Ultrasound Techniques Used for Peripheral Nerve Assessment. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:956. [PMID: 36900101 PMCID: PMC10000911 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13050956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM This review article describes quantitative ultrasound (QUS) techniques and summarizes their strengths and limitations when applied to peripheral nerves. METHODS A systematic review was conducted on publications after 1990 in Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed databases. The search terms "peripheral nerve", "quantitative ultrasound", and "elastography ultrasound" were used to identify studies related to this investigation. RESULTS Based on this literature review, QUS investigations performed on peripheral nerves can be categorized into three main groups: (1) B-mode echogenicity measurements, which are affected by a variety of post-processing algorithms applied during image formation and in subsequent B-mode images; (2) ultrasound (US) elastography, which examines tissue stiffness or elasticity through modalities such as strain ultrasonography or shear wave elastography (SWE). With strain ultrasonography, induced tissue strain, caused by internal or external compression stimuli that distort the tissue, is measured by tracking detectable speckles in the B-mode images. In SWE, the propagation speed of shear waves, generated by externally applied mechanical vibrations or internal US "push pulse" stimuli, is measured to estimate tissue elasticity; (3) the characterization of raw backscattered ultrasound radiofrequency (RF) signals, which provide fundamental ultrasonic tissue parameters, such as the acoustic attenuation and backscattered coefficients, that reflect tissue composition and microstructural properties. CONCLUSIONS QUS techniques allow the objective evaluation of peripheral nerves and reduce operator- or system-associated biases that can influence qualitative B-mode imaging. The application of QUS techniques to peripheral nerves, including their strengths and limitations, were described and discussed in this review to enhance clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Jerban
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Victor Barrère
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Michael Andre
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
| | - Eric Y. Chang
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
| | - Sameer B. Shah
- Research Service, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
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Farias Zuniga A, Keir PJ. Thirty Minutes of Sub-diastolic Blood Flow Occlusion Alters Carpal Tunnel Tissue Function and Mechanics. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2022; 48:1110-1121. [PMID: 35300878 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2022.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
There is evidence that carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) development is driven by vascular factors, specifically those resulting from ischemia and edema. The purpose of this study was to investigate the vascular hypothesis of CTS development by quantifying the temporal effects of 30 min of sub-diastolic brachial blood flow occlusion on median nerve edema, intraneural blood flow velocity, nerve function as measured through nerve conduction study (NCS), tendon-connective tissue mechanics and carpal tunnel tissue stiffness. Forty healthy volunteers underwent 30 min of sub-diastolic brachial occlusion while an NCS and ultrasound examination were performed consecutively every 5 min. Motor latency (p < 0.001), sensory conduction velocity (p < 0.001), sensory amplitude (p = 0.04), nerve blood flow (p < 0.001), peak relative flexor digitorum superficialis tendon-sub-synovial connective tissue displacement (p = 0.02) and shear strain (p = 0.04) were significantly affected by partial ischemia. Our results highlight the dependency of carpal tunnel tissue function on adequate blood flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Farias Zuniga
- McMaster Occupational Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter J Keir
- McMaster Occupational Biomechanics Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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4
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Abstract
Diagnostic ultrasound in the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome is firmly established. Preoperative evaluation is based on quantitative parameters such as measurement of the pathologically enlarged cross-sectional area of the nerve. The value of postoperative ultrasound lies in the visualization of the anatomy and the conclusions that can be drawn from it. It focuses on the semiquantitative sonographic parameters of nerve compression. Nerve lesions and persistent strictures can be visualized and clearly localized. In recurrent disease, the primary focus is to dynamically exclude postoperative scarring, which results in a reduction of nerve gliding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Kluge
- Handchirurgie Seefeld, Seefeldstrasse 27, Zurich 8008, Switzerland; Department of Hand Surgery, Klinik Impuls, Bahnhofstraße 137, Wetzikon 8620, Switzerland.
| | - Martin Langer
- Department of Trauma, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Munster, Waldeyerstraße 1, Munster 48149, Germany
| | - Thomas Schelle
- Department of Neurology, Klinikum Dessau-Rosslau, Auenweg 38, Dessau-Rosslau 06847, Germany
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5
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Ságová I, Pavai D, Kantárová D, Holováčová D, Kužma M, Payer J, Vaňuga P. Influence of Disease Activity and Body Composition Parameters on Cross-Sectional Area of the Median Nerve in Acromegalic Patients. Physiol Res 2021; 70:921-929. [PMID: 34717059 PMCID: PMC8815471 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.934681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is neuropathy that occurs due to compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel. Acromegaly is one of the important causes of CTS. The aim of this study was to examine median nerve with ultrasound in acromegalic patients and to assess the relationship with activity, duration of disease and body composition parameters. We prospectively examined the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the median nerve with high-resolution ultrasound in 107 acromegalic patients (70 females and 37 males) and 107 healthy controls (70 females and 37 males) matched for age, gender, and BMI. Body composition parameters were assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The Student t-tests and Pearson correlation were used for data analysis. The cross sectional area of the median nerve was increased in acromegalic patients compared to controls (11.9 ± 4.8 mm2 vs. 7.7 ± 2.4 mm2, P < 0.001). Positive correlation was found between IGF-1 levels and CSA in the acromegalic group (R = 0.400, P < 0.001). Relationship between CSA and duration of acromegaly was not confirmed. In acromegalic patients, BMI correlated with the CSA (R = 0.294, P = 0.002). There was no significant difference in BMI, fat mass between the acromegalic and control group, but lean mass was higher in acromegalic patients compared with controls (54.8 ± 13.3 vs. 51 ± 11.6, P = 0.047). Lean mass and LMI (total body lean mass/height) positively correlated with CSA in acromegalic patients (R = 0.340, P < 0.001; R = 0.424, P < 0.001). No correlation was observed between fat mass and CSA of median nerve in all groups. We confirmed the enlargement of the median nerve in acromegalic patients. This enlargement is proportional to the degree of IGF-1 levels and is not dependent on the duration of the disease. The enlargement of the median nerve in acromegalic patients also depends on lean body mass and is not dependent on fat body mass.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Ságová
- Department of Endocrinology, National Institute of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Ľubochňa, Slovakia.
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Hannaford A, Vucic S, Kiernan MC, Simon NG. Review Article "Spotlight on Ultrasonography in the Diagnosis of Peripheral Nerve Disease: The Evidence to Date". Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:4579-4604. [PMID: 34429642 PMCID: PMC8378935 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s295851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuromuscular ultrasound is rapidly becoming incorporated into clinical practice as a standard tool in the assessment of peripheral nerve diseases. Ultrasound complements clinical phenotyping and electrodiagnostic evaluation, providing critical structural anatomical information to enhance diagnosis and identify structural pathology. This review article examines the evidence supporting neuromuscular ultrasound in the diagnosis of compressive mononeuropathies, traumatic nerve injury, generalised peripheral neuropathy and motor neuron disease. Extending the sonographic evaluation of nerves beyond simple morphological measurements has the potential to improve diagnostics in peripheral neuropathy, as well as advancing the understanding of pathological mechanisms, which in turn will promote precise therapies and improve therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Hannaford
- Westmead Clinical School, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Steve Vucic
- Westmead Clinical School, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Matthew C Kiernan
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, University of Sydney and Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Neil G Simon
- Northern Beaches Clinical School, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
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7
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Tang X, Zhu B, Tian M, Guo R, Huang S, Tang Y, Qiu L. Preliminary study on the influencing factors of shear wave elastography for peripheral nerves in healthy population. Sci Rep 2021; 11:5582. [PMID: 33692411 PMCID: PMC7946935 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-84900-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
This study took shear wave elastography (SWE) technology to measure the shear wave velocity (SWV) of peripheral nerve in healthy population, which represents the stiffness of the peripheral nerves, and research whether these parameters (location, age, sex, body mass index (BMI), the thickness and cross-sectional area(CSA) of the nerve) would affect the stiffness of the peripheral nerves. 105 healthy volunteers were enrolled in this study. We recorded the genders and ages of these volunteers, measured height and weight, calculated BMI, measured nerve thickness and CSA using high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS), and then, we measured and compared the SWV of the right median nerve at the middle of the forearm and at the proximal entrance of the carpal tunnel. The SWV of the median nerve of the left side was measured to explore whether there exist differences of SWV in bilateral median nerve. Additionally, we also measured the SWV of the right tibial nerve at the ankle canal to test whether there is any difference in shear wave velocity between different peripheral nerves. This study found that there existed significant differences of SWV between different sites in one nerve and between different peripheral nerves. No significant difference was found in SWV between bilateral median nerves. Additionally, the SWV of peripheral nerves was associated with gender, while not associated with age or BMI. The mean SWV of the studied male volunteers in median nerve were significantly higher than those of female (p < 0.05). Peripheral nerve SWE measurement in healthy people is affected by different sites, different nerves and genders, and not associated with age, BMI, nerve thickness or CSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Tang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Bihui Zhu
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Mei Tian
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruiqian Guo
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Songya Huang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanjiao Tang
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Qiu
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China.
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8
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Lee CH, Lin YT, Wu CT, Lin CH, Chen SH, Hsu CC. Sonoelastography in the Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Diagnostic Values Compared With the Normative Population. Ann Plast Surg 2021; 86:S299-S311. [PMID: 33443882 DOI: 10.1097/sap.0000000000002686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sonoelastography (SEL) is widely used for assessing tissue stiffness and pathophysiology. It has also been used to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). However, the current criteria to diagnose CTS in SEL are diverse. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature and assess the diagnostic value of SEL for CTS. METHODS A literature review was performed using MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, and the Cochrane Collaboration Library for primary research articles using the keywords sonoelastography and carpal tunnel syndrome. Data related to diagnostic and cutoff value were extracted. Bias assessment was performed. RESULTS A total of 121 publications were reviewed. Nineteen primary case series met the inclusion criteria and were selected for full analysis. Different diagnostic approaches were identified, with units/expressions including kilopascals, conduct velocity, and strain ratio. The kilopascals and conduct velocity were measured using shear wave elastography, whereas strain ratio was calculated by relative compression quantification. A mean shear modulus cutoff value from 38.25 to 86 kPa and an acoustic radiation force impulse cutoff value of 3.0 to 3.23 m/s were used to diagnose CTS. Eight articles reported strain ratio between the median nerve and nearby tissues with diverse results due to different reference points. The other 3 additional diagnostic values were reported. CONCLUSIONS Sonoelastography is a useful noninvasive and promising modality to diagnose CTS. It may reflect both the condition of soft tissue scarring and quantitative values for CTS and median nerve stiffness. A diversity of examination values was found in different modalities. A high level of evidence was absent.
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9
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Abstract
With the widespread use of high-resolution ultrasonography, ultrasonic examination has been shown to be useful as a diagnostic method for carpal tunnel syndrome. The main advantages of ultrasonography are that it is simple, quick, non-invasive, and economical. Another advantage is that tissue dynamics can be observed with real-time imaging. In recent reports, it has been shown that ultrasonic examination can provide similar diagnostic accuracy as nerve conduction study in the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome. It has been expected that ultrasound demand in daily medical care will continue to increase. Ultrasonography in carpal tunnel syndrome shows an enlarged median nerve in proximal carpal tunnel, thickening of the flexor retinaculum, and edema around flexor tendons in cross-sectional images. In addition, with the introduction of new technologies such as ultrasonic elastography and speckle tracking, it has become possible to quantify dynamics and material property changes of nerves, tendons, and their surrounding structures. In this review, we describe recent advancements of carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosis based on ultrasound dynamic images, and discuss its pathology.
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Recent Advances in Ultrasound Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:596. [PMID: 32824261 PMCID: PMC7460039 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10080596+10.1055/s-0032-1325397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023] Open
Abstract
With the widespread use of high-resolution ultrasonography, ultrasonic examination has been shown to be useful as a diagnostic method for carpal tunnel syndrome. The main advantages of ultrasonography are that it is simple, quick, non-invasive, and economical. Another advantage is that tissue dynamics can be observed with real-time imaging. In recent reports, it has been shown that ultrasonic examination can provide similar diagnostic accuracy as nerve conduction study in the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome. It has been expected that ultrasound demand in daily medical care will continue to increase. Ultrasonography in carpal tunnel syndrome shows an enlarged median nerve in proximal carpal tunnel, thickening of the flexor retinaculum, and edema around flexor tendons in cross-sectional images. In addition, with the introduction of new technologies such as ultrasonic elastography and speckle tracking, it has become possible to quantify dynamics and material property changes of nerves, tendons, and their surrounding structures. In this review, we describe recent advancements of carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosis based on ultrasound dynamic images, and discuss its pathology.
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Yoshii Y, Zhao C, Amadio PC. Recent Advances in Ultrasound Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:596. [PMID: 32824261 PMCID: PMC7460039 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10080596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
With the widespread use of high-resolution ultrasonography, ultrasonic examination has been shown to be useful as a diagnostic method for carpal tunnel syndrome. The main advantages of ultrasonography are that it is simple, quick, non-invasive, and economical. Another advantage is that tissue dynamics can be observed with real-time imaging. In recent reports, it has been shown that ultrasonic examination can provide similar diagnostic accuracy as nerve conduction study in the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome. It has been expected that ultrasound demand in daily medical care will continue to increase. Ultrasonography in carpal tunnel syndrome shows an enlarged median nerve in proximal carpal tunnel, thickening of the flexor retinaculum, and edema around flexor tendons in cross-sectional images. In addition, with the introduction of new technologies such as ultrasonic elastography and speckle tracking, it has become possible to quantify dynamics and material property changes of nerves, tendons, and their surrounding structures. In this review, we describe recent advancements of carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosis based on ultrasound dynamic images, and discuss its pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuichi Yoshii
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tokyo Medical University Ibaraki Medical Center, Ami, Ibaraki 300-0395, Japan
| | - Chunfeng Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; (C.Z.); (P.C.A.)
| | - Peter C. Amadio
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; (C.Z.); (P.C.A.)
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12
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Sugiyama Y, Naito K, Miyamoto H, Goto K, Kinoshita M, Nagura N, Iwase Y, Kaneko K. A Survey of the Median Nerve Elasticity after Volar Locking Plate Fixation Using Ultrasound Elastography. J Hand Microsurg 2020; 12:95-99. [PMID: 32788823 PMCID: PMC7410803 DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1685544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Median nerve disorder is one of the complications after surgery using volar locking plate (VLP) for distal radius fracture (DRF). In this study, elasticity of the median nerve was quantified using ultrasound elastography (EG) (real-time tissue EG) and compared between the operation and healthy sides in patients after surgery for DRF using VLP. Materials and Methods The subjects of this study were 28 patients (4 males and 24 females; mean age: 58.5 years) who could be followed up for more than 6 months after surgery for DRF and were able to be examined by EG. We evaluated median nerve elasticities on the operation and healthy sides using EG on the final follow-up. Results The median nerve strain ratios were 3.97 ± 2.99 on the operation side and 3.91 ± 1.51 on the healthy side, showing no significant difference in elasticity of the median nerve between the operation and healthy sides. Conclusion Median nerve disorder, which is a complication after surgery with VLP, can be objectively detected using EG capable of evaluating median nerve elasticity externally to detect medial nerve degeneration while degeneration of the median nerve. Thus, EG may be used as a useful diagnostic tool to prevent complications and decide on appropriate timing of VLP extraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoichi Sugiyama
- Department of Orthopaedics, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kiyohito Naito
- Department of Orthopaedics, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideaki Miyamoto
- Trauma and Reconstruction Center, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Goto
- Department of Orthopaedics, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mayuko Kinoshita
- Department of Orthopaedics, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nana Nagura
- Department of Orthopaedics, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Juntendo Tokyo Koto Geriatric Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Iwase
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Juntendo Tokyo Koto Geriatric Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuo Kaneko
- Department of Orthopaedics, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Polat YD, Aydın E, Ince FS, Bilgen M. Sonoelastic response of median nerve to rehabilitation in carpal tunnel syndrome. J Ultrason 2020; 20:e90-e94. [PMID: 32609970 PMCID: PMC7409547 DOI: 10.15557/jou.2020.0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim of the study To evaluate the sonoelastic response of the median nerve in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome following conservative rehabilitation with splint plus exercise regimens. Materials and methods A total of thirty-five patients diagnosed with mild carpal tunnel syndrome and treated with splint plus exercise therapy; hand resting splint all day for 3 weeks and then only at nights along with nerve gliding exercises in 10 repetitions 3 times a day. The median nerve was evaluated clinically prior to the treatment and at week 6 of therapy using physical examination, electrodiagnostic neurophysiology tests and radiological imaging; Boston Scores, electromyogram, ultrasonography and sonoelastography. Results Following the 6-week treatment protocol on 35 subjects with mild carpal tunnel syndrome, sonoelastography showed significantly softer median nerve, while the traditional parameters based on Boston Scores and cross-sectional area based on ultrasonography remained nearly unresponsive. Such early indication of biomechanical changes in the nerve may be of clinical importance if it can offer a prognostic value of the applied treatment, while tissue softening suggests the alleviation of nerve compression. Conclusions Sonoelasticity of the median nerve can serve as a reliable marker for assessing therapeutic changes in median nerve stiffness and potentially the outcome early on in mild carpal tunnel syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasemin Durum Polat
- Department of Radiology, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Medicine , Aydın , Turkey
| | - Elif Aydın
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Medicine , Aydın , Turkey
| | - Fikriye Sinem Ince
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Medicine , Aydın , Turkey
| | - Mehmet Bilgen
- Department of Biophysics, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Medicine , Aydın , Turkey
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Ardakani AA, Afshar A, Bhatt S, Bureau NJ, Tahmasebi A, Acharya UR, Mohammadi A. Diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome: A comparative study of shear wave elastography, morphometry and artificial intelligence techniques. Pattern Recognit Lett 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.patrec.2020.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Knight AE, Lipman SL, Ketsiri T, Hobson-Webb LD, Nightingale KR. On the Challenges Associated with Obtaining Reproducible Measurements Using SWEI in the Median Nerve. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2020; 46:1092-1104. [PMID: 32057471 PMCID: PMC7419061 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2019.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/29/2019] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
This work discusses challenges we have encountered in acquiring reproducible measurements of shear wave speed (SWS) in the median nerve and suggests methods for improving reproducibility. First, procedural acquisition challenges are described, including nerve echogenicity, transducer pressure and transmit focal depth. Second, we present an iterative, radon sum-based algorithm that was developed specifically for measuring the SWS in median nerves. SWSs were measured using single track location shear wave elasticity imaging (SWEI) in the median nerves of six healthy volunteers and six patients diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome. Unsuccessful measurements were associated with several challenges including reverberation artifacts, low signal-to-noise ratio and temporal window limitations for tracking the velocity wave. To address these challenges, an iterative convergence algorithm was implemented to identify an appropriate temporal processing window that removed the reverberation artifacts while preserving shear wave signals. Algorithmically, it was important to consider the lateral regression kernel size and position and the temporal window. Procedurally, both nerve echogenicity and transducer compression were determined to impact the measured SWS. Shear waves were successfully measured in the median nerve proximal to the carpal tunnel, but SWEI measurements were significantly compromised within the carpal tunnel itself. The velocity-based SWSs were statistically significantly higher than the displacement SWSs (p < 0.0001), demonstrating for the first time dispersion in the median nerve in vivo using SWEI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna E Knight
- Duke Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC.
| | | | | | - Lisa D Hobson-Webb
- Duke Department of Neurology/Neuromuscular Division, Duke University, Durham, NC
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Schrier VJMM, Lin J, Gregory A, Thoreson AR, Alizad A, Amadio PC, Fatemi M. Shear wave elastography of the median nerve: A mechanical study. Muscle Nerve 2020; 61:826-833. [PMID: 32170959 DOI: 10.1002/mus.26863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Shear wave elastography (SWE) shows promise in peripheral neuropathy evaluation but has potential limitations due to tissue size and heterogeneity. We tested SWE sensitivity to elasticity change and the effect of probe position in a median nerve cadaver model. METHODS Ten specimens were used to measure median nerve elasticity under increasing loads using SWE and indentation. Measurements were compared using repeated-measures analysis of variance. RESULTS Indentation and SWE-based longitudinal nerve elasticity increased with tensile loading (P < .01), showing a similar relationship. Acquisition in a transverse plane showed lower values compared with longitudinal measurements, mostly under higher loads (P = .03), as did postdissection elasticity (P = .02). Elasticity did not change when measured proximal to the carpal tunnel. CONCLUSIONS Longitudinal SWE is sensitive to changes in median nerve elasticity. Measuring elasticity of peripheral nerves noninvasively could elucidate intra-neural pathology related to compression neuropathies, and proof to be of added value as a diagnostic or prognostic tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena J M M Schrier
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Mayo Clinic Minnesota, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Jason Lin
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Mayo Clinic Minnesota, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Adriana Gregory
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic Minnesota, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Andrew R Thoreson
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Mayo Clinic Minnesota, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Azra Alizad
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic Minnesota, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Peter C Amadio
- Biomechanics Laboratory and Tendon and Soft Tissue Biology Laboratory, Mayo Clinic Minnesota, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Mostafa Fatemi
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic Minnesota, Rochester, Minnesota
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Moran L, Royuela A, de Vargas AP, Lopez A, Cepeda Y, Martinelli G. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Diagnostic Usefulness of Ultrasound Measurement of the Median Nerve Area and Quantitative Elastographic Measurement of the Median Nerve Stiffness. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2020; 39:331-339. [PMID: 31423615 DOI: 10.1002/jum.15111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To correlate the ultrasound (US) measurements of the median nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) and the measurements of its stiffness by shear wave elastography (SWE) with the severity grade of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) using electrodiagnostic testing (EDT) and to determine the cutoff points for CSA and SWE measurements to allow us to discriminate patients with moderate and severe CTS from those with mild or negative EDT findings. METHODS Seventy-three patients with 105 hands with a clinical suspicion of CTS were studied with US and SWE. We measured the median nerve CSA and elasticity (E) at the tunnel inlet (CSAu and Eu), in the quadratus pronator (CSAo and Eo), and the differences (CSAu - CSAo and Eu - Eo). RESULTS The nerve area and stiffness increased according to the EDT severity of CTS; the CSA increased proportionally as CTS increased from negative to severe according to EDT, and the stiffness was not different between patients with negative and mild EDT findings but was higher in patients with moderate and severe EDT findings versus negative and mild EDT findings. The cutoff points of a CSAu of 14 mm2 or greater and an Eu - Eo of 57 kPa or greater together allowed the discrimination of moderate and severe CTS from the rest. CONCLUSIONS The joint use of US and SWE is an alternative to EDT in the clinical management and treatment of patients with a clinical suspicion of CTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luz Moran
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Royuela
- Department of Statistics, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alberto Perez de Vargas
- Department of Neurophysiology, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Lopez
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Yamilet Cepeda
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gianluca Martinelli
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
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Dąbrowska-Thing A, Zakrzewski J, Nowak O, Nitek Ż. Ultrasound elastography as a potential method to evaluate entrapment neuropathies in elite athletes: a mini-review. Pol J Radiol 2019; 84:e625-e629. [PMID: 32082461 PMCID: PMC7016358 DOI: 10.5114/pjr.2019.92422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Entrapment neuropathies constitute a significant albeit still neglected problem in athletes. Currently available diagnostic options in patients with suspected neuropathies, nerve conduction studies, and magnetic resonance imaging have some drawbacks, mostly related to their invasive character, high cost, and limited availability. This paper reviews published articles documenting the use of ultrasound elastography, a novel technique to determine tissue strain, in the evaluation of nerve stiffness in entrapment neuropathy, and it discusses potential pros and cons of this method in the examination of elite athletes. Based on the review of literature, ultrasound elastography - especially shear wave elastography - seems suitable for the evaluation of entrapment neuropathies in elite athletes. Published evidence from the general population suggests that most common entrapment neuropathies (carpal tunnel syndrome, ulnar neuropathy of the elbow, ulnar tunnel syndrome) are associated with a significant increase in the stiffness of affected nerves, which can be accurately detected with ultrasound elastography. Before adding ultrasound elastography to the armamentarium of diagnostic tests used routinely in athletes, its accuracy in the detection of entrapment neuropathies needs to be verified in this specific group, and the reference values for peripheral nerve strain in sportspersons need to be determined.
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19
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Ultrasound elastography in the evaluation of peripheral neuropathies: a systematic review of the literature. Pol J Radiol 2019; 84:e581-e591. [PMID: 32082457 PMCID: PMC7016359 DOI: 10.5114/pjr.2019.91439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral neuropathy is associated with an increase in intraneural pressure, and hence ultrasound elastography seems to be an ideal method to detect early stages of this condition based on changes in the affected nerve stiffness. The aim of this systematic review was to analyse the applicability of strain elastography (SE) and shear wave elastography (SWE) in the evaluation of peripheral nerves in patients with neuropathy of various aetiologies. Published evidence shows clearly that ultrasound elastography can accurately diagnose many types of peripheral neuropathies (carpal tunnel syndrome and other entrapment neuropathies, diabetic peripheral neuropathy and peripheral neuropathy associated with other systemic diseases), sometimes at the stages at which the condition is still asymptomatic. However, it is still unclear whether elastographic changes within the nerves precede functional anomalies detectable on nerve conduction studies. Also, relatively little is known about the relationship between the stiffness of peripheral nerves and the severity of peripheral neuropathy and its underlying condition. Based on the reproducibility data, SWE seems to be superior to SE. Nevertheless, the sources of heterogeneity in the peripheral nerve stiffness in healthy persons need to be identified, and the sets of reference values for specific peripheral nerves need to be determined. Finally, the potential confounding effect of hardening artefacts, such as bones, on the stiffness of peripheral nerves needs to be verified. After addressing all these issues, elastographic evaluation of peripheral nerve stiffness might become a reliable, easily accessible, and convenient diagnostic test performed routinely in patients with various peripheral neuropathies.
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Lin CP, Chen IJ, Chang KV, Wu WT, Özçakar L. Utility of Ultrasound Elastography in Evaluation of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2019; 45:2855-2865. [PMID: 31402226 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2019.07.409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 07/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
We systematically reviewed observational studies investigating ultrasound elastography for median nerves in the carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) population. PubMed and Embase were studied from the earliest record to April 2019. The primary outcome was the comparison of elasticity of the median nerve between participants with and without CTS, quantified by the standardized mean difference (SMD) and its 95% confidence interval. The median nerve is considered to be stiffer in the CTS population when the SMD of tissue strain is negative, or that of strain ratio, shear modulus and shear wave velocity are positive. The present meta-analysis included 17 studies, evaluating 1401 wrists. Our result showed that regardless of the ultrasound elastography mode (tissue strain, strain ratio, shear modulus and shear wave velocity) used, median nerves at the wrist level in patients with CTS were consistently stiffer than those in healthy controls. Importantly, ultrasound elastography revealed its potential in differentiating CTS of different severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Peng Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ing-Jeng Chen
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ke-Vin Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Taiwan University Hospital, Bei-Hu Branch, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Wei-Ting Wu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Taiwan University Hospital, Bei-Hu Branch, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Levent Özçakar
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Hacettepe University Medical School, Ankara, Turkey
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21
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Wee TC, Simon NG. Ultrasound elastography for the evaluation of peripheral nerves: A systematic review. Muscle Nerve 2019; 60:501-512. [PMID: 31269240 DOI: 10.1002/mus.26624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve disorders are commonly encountered in clinical practice. Electrodiagnostic studies remain the cornerstone of the evaluation of nerve disorders. More recently, ultrasound has played an increasing complementary role in the neuromuscular clinic. Ultrasound elastography is a technique that measures the elastic properties of tissues. Given the histological changes that occur in diseased peripheral nerves, nerve ultrasound elastography has been explored as a noninvasive way to evaluate changes in nerve tissue composition. Studies to date suggest that nerve stiffness tends to increase in the setting of peripheral neuropathy, regardless of etiology, consistent with loss of more compliant myelin, and replacement with connective tissue. The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the current literature on the use of ultrasound elastography in the evaluation of peripheral neuropathy. Limitations of ultrasound elastography and gaps in current literature are discussed, and prospects for future clinical and research applications are raised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tze Chao Wee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Changi General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Neil G Simon
- St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
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22
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Anno S, Okano T, Mamoto K, Sugioka Y, Takeda S, Hashimoto A, Yamashita E, Morinaka R, Ueda H, Inui K, Koike T, Nakamura H. Comparison of median nerve stiffness with and without rheumatoid arthritis by ultrasound real-time tissue elastography: A propensity score matching study. Mod Rheumatol 2019; 30:481-488. [PMID: 30947583 DOI: 10.1080/14397595.2019.1602914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to compare median nerve stiffness measured by ultrasound real-time tissue elastography in patients with and without rheumatoid arthritis (RA and non-RA groups, respectively).Methods: Altogether, 402 hands of 201 RA group and 222 hands of 111 non-RA group were included in the study. Ultrasonography was performed to evaluate the circumference, cross-sectional area (CSA) and strain ratio as an elasticity of the median nerve at the inlet level of the carpal tunnel and the proximal portion of the carpal tunnel inlet. Using propensity score matching, the difference between RA and non-RA group were analyzed.Results: After propensity score matching, 135 hands in 104 RA group and 70 non-RA group were finally analyzed. There were no significant differences in the circumference and CSA of the median nerve between the two groups. The strain ratio of the median nerve was significantly higher in RA group than in non-RA group only at the inlet of the carpal tunnel level.Conclusions: The nerve stiffness in patients with RA measured by ultrasound real-time tissue elastography was higher than without RA. Inflammatory condition of the flexor tendon and wrist joint in patients with RA may generate fibrotic changes in the median nerve.Trial registration: University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry: UMIN000015314.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shohei Anno
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yodogawa Christian Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tadashi Okano
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kenji Mamoto
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuko Sugioka
- Center for Senile Degenerative Disorders (CSDD), Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Setsuko Takeda
- Central Clinical Laboratory, Osaka City University Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ayumi Hashimoto
- Central Clinical Laboratory, Osaka City University Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Emi Yamashita
- Central Clinical Laboratory, Osaka City University Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Rika Morinaka
- Clinical Laboratory, Shirahama Hamayu Hospital, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Hatsue Ueda
- Clinical Laboratory, Shirahama Hamayu Hospital, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Kentaro Inui
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Koike
- Center for Senile Degenerative Disorders (CSDD), Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan.,Search Institute for Bone and Arthritis Disease (SINBAD), Wakayama, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Nakamura
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
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Tezcan S, Ulu Ozturk F, Uslu N, Nalbant M, Umit Yemisci O. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Evaluation of the Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy With Ultrasound Strain Imaging. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2019; 38:113-122. [PMID: 29892976 DOI: 10.1002/jum.14669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the efficacy of low-level laser therapy on median nerve stiffness by using strain elastography in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). METHODS This study included 37 wrists of 34 patients with mild or moderate CTS between January 2016 and August 2016. The control group comprised 17 patients (18 wrists) with CTS who were treated with wrist splinting for 3 weeks. The low-level laser therapy group included 17 patients (19 wrists) with CTS who were treated with a combination of splinting and low-level laser therapy, which was applied 5 times per week for 3 weeks. Clinical assessment scales, including the Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) and Functional Status Score (FSS), were obtained from our database. The cross-sectional area by ultrasound and strain ratio by elastography were studied. The differences in the strain ratio, cross-sectional area, SSS, and FSS between pretreatment and posttreatment periods in the groups were compared by the paired-sample t test. The correlations between changes in the strain ratio and the cross-sectional area, SSS, and FSS were analyzed by Pearson correlation coefficients. RESULTS The control group included 13 women and 4 men, and the therapy group included 14 women and 3 men. In the therapy group, the mean values of the strain ratio, cross-sectional area, SSS, and FSS decreased significantly after laser therapy (P < .001) in contrast to the control group. No significant correlation was observed between the decreasing degree of the strain ratio and the cross-sectional area, SSS, and FSS after laser therapy. CONCLUSIONS The strain ratio and cross-sectional area of the median nerve decrease after low-level laser therapy. These changes may be related to the therapeutic effects of low-level laser therapy, such as nerve regeneration and improvement of the vascular supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehnaz Tezcan
- Department of Radiology, Baskent University Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Funda Ulu Ozturk
- Department of Radiology, Baskent University Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nihal Uslu
- Department of Radiology, Baskent University Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Merve Nalbant
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Baskent University Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Oya Umit Yemisci
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Baskent University Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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Salman Roghani R, Hashemi SE, Holisaz MT, Gohari F, Delbari A, Lokk J. The diagnostic accuracy of median nerve ultrasonography in elderly patients with carpal tunnel syndrome: sensitivity and specificity assessment. Clin Interv Aging 2018; 13:1953-1962. [PMID: 30349214 PMCID: PMC6187921 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s177307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Accurate diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), the most common entrapment neuropathy, and its differentiation from other diseases are essential, especially in older individuals with advanced symptoms and modified electrophysiological abnormalities. The current study was conducted to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasonography (US), regarding sensitivity and specificity in the diagnosis of CTS in elderly patients. Methods Individuals with upper limb complaints and reference subjects were recruited from the Rofaydeh Hospital, Tehran, Iran, from June 2013 to October 2014 – (15 months). We evaluate case and control subjects for health status, demographics, clinical characteristics of CTS, median nerve physiology by electrodiagnostic tests, and anatomy by US. Median nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) at precanal, tunnel inlet, midcanal, tunnel outlet, and antecubital levels was measured applying US examination. Results Of the 723 complaining patients, we assessed 380 patients with CTS symptoms. Electrodiagnostic studies (EDX) confirmed the CTS diagnosis in 203 of these clinically diseased patients. A total of 103 patients (of the 113 reference subjects) had normal EDX in the reference group. Comparisons of wrists between the afflicted and reference subjects demonstrated the CSA at precanal, tunnel inlet, midcanal, and tunnel outlet levels being significantly more abundant in the diseased hands than in the nondiseased hands. CSA at the tunnel inlet and the inlet-to-antecubital CSA ratio with a threshold of 8.5 mm2 and 0.65 gave the best diagnostic accuracy with a sensitivity and specificity of 96.9 and 93.6% for the inlet CSA and 99 and 28% for the CSA ratio, respectively. Conclusion The US as a noninvasive diagnostic method may serve for the investigation of CTS in elderly patients with excellent sensitivity and specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Salman Roghani
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden, .,Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Ebrahim Hashemi
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taghi Holisaz
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faeze Gohari
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Delbari
- Iranian Research Center on Aging, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Johan Lokk
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden,
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Aslan A, Aktan A, Aslan M, Gülseren Y, Kabaalioğlu A. Shear Wave and Strain Elastographic Features of the Brachial Plexus in Healthy Adults: Reliability of the Findings-a Pilot Study. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2018; 37:2353-2362. [PMID: 29480537 DOI: 10.1002/jum.14584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the sonoelastographic findings for the normal brachial plexus via shear wave elastography (SWE) and strain elastography (SE) and the reliability of the measurements. METHODS Thirty-nine healthy adult volunteers were included in the study. The brachial plexus was evaluated with SWE and SE at the interscalene region by 2 observers separately, and the observers were unaware of each other's outcomes. The elastic modulus (kilopascals), shear wave velocity (SWV, meters per second), and strain ratio were obtained. Elasticity patterns on SE were assessed as hard, intermediate, and soft. An intraclass correlation coefficient analysis was performed for determining the reliability of sonoelastographic findings. The correlation of sonoelastographic features with age and sex was investigated. RESULTS The volunteers included 13 men and 26 women. The mean age of the participants ± SD was 36.2 ± 7.8 (range, 25-56) years. The mean elasticity modulus values of the brachial plexus for observers 1 and 2 were 17.03 (95% confidence interval [CI], 15.03, 19.03) and 13.83 (95% CI, 12.23, 15.43) kPa, respectively; the SWVs were 2.24 (95% CI, 2.12, 2.36) and 2.04 (95% CI, 1.93, 2.15) m/s; and the strain ratios were 1.20 (95% CI, 1.18, 1.25) 1.38 (95% CI, 1.22, 1.54). The elasticity pattern was mostly intermediate stiffness for both observers (n = 72 [92.3%]; n = 75 [96.1%]). The intraclass correlation coefficient was poor to moderate and statistically significant for the elastic modulus, SWV, and elasticity pattern (P < .05 for all parameters). The sonoelastographic characteristics of the brachial plexus had no correlation with age or sex. CONCLUSIONS The reliability and reproducibility of sonoelastography of the brachial plexus are low, and the appropriateness of this technique in this manner is controversial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Aslan
- Department of Radiology, Medical School of Istanbul Medeniyet University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Aktan
- Department of Radiology, Medical School of Istanbul Medeniyet University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mine Aslan
- Department of Radiology, Medical School of Istanbul Medeniyet University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yıldız Gülseren
- Department of Radiology, Medical School of Istanbul Medeniyet University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Adnan Kabaalioğlu
- Department of Radiology, Medical School of Istanbul Medeniyet University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Zhu B, Yan F, He Y, Wang L, Xiang X, Tang Y, Yang Y, Qiu L. Evaluation of the healthy median nerve elasticity: Feasibility and reliability of shear wave elastography. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018; 97:e12956. [PMID: 30412114 PMCID: PMC6221628 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000012956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study applied the shear wave elastography (SWE) to the median nerve in order to investigate the feasibility and reliability of its use in 40 healthy volunteers. Shear wave velocities of the median nerve on bilateral forearms and right carpal tunnel were obtained with relaxing or stretching conditions. The inter- and intraobserver agreements and differences of nerve elasticity among groups were evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients, the paired t test, and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, respectively. The stiffness of the site was expressed by 3 types of values: mean, minimum, and maximum shear-wave velocities. The inter- and intraobserver agreements were excellent (0.852-0.930) on the right forearm. No differences were detected between the bilateral forearm (mean: P = .14), while the values of different body sites and postures were statistically different (P < .001). SWE, as a noninvasive and objective tool, reached a good consistency in evaluating the healthy median nerve. Further studies are essential to investigate the detailed influencing factors and provide an insight of SWE to estimate both the normal nerve and peripheral neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Feng Yan
- Clinical Ultrasound Imaging Drug Research Lab, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
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Utility of ultrasound elastography in a cohort of patients with idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGY AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrnm.2018.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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28
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Torres-Costoso A, Martínez-Vizcaíno V, Álvarez-Bueno C, Ferri-Morales A, Cavero-Redondo I. Accuracy of Ultrasonography for the Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2018; 99:758-765.e10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2017.08.489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Cingoz M, Kandemirli SG, Alis DC, Samanci C, Kandemirli GC, Adatepe NU. Evaluation of median nerve by shear wave elastography and diffusion tensor imaging in carpal tunnel syndrome. Eur J Radiol 2018; 101:59-64. [PMID: 29571802 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2018.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Revised: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the current study is to investigate the diagnostic role of shear-wave elastography and diffusion tensor imaging in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study included a total of 77 wrists; 18 normal, 35 wrists with mild, 9 wrists with moderate and 15 wrists with severe carpal tunnel syndrome. Elastography of the median nerve was performed by defining the boundaries of a segment of the nerve at sagittal plane at the level of proximal carpal row. Additionally, the cross-sectional area of the median nerve was evaluated. Fractional anisotropy and apparent diffusion coefficient measurements were carried out by placing region-of-interest at three levels: at pisiform bone (carpal tunnel inlet), mid carpal tunnel, and hook of hamate (carpal tunnel outlet). RESULTS Patients with carpal tunnel syndrome had higher elasticity values of median nerve (53.0 kPa; IQR 40.8-77.0 kPa) compared to control subjects. (36.8 kPa; IQR 31.0-39.9 kPa) Patients with moderate-severe carpal tunnel syndrome had higher elasticity values (82 kPa; IQR 64.0-95.5 kPa) compared to patients with mild carpal tunnel syndrome. (44 kPa; IQR 32.5-59.5 kPa) Patients with carpal tunnel syndrome had lower fractional anisotropy at mid-carpal level (0.382; IQR 0.330-0.495) compared to the control group. (0.494; IQR 0.434-0.537) Patients with moderate-severe carpal tunnel syndrome had lower fractional anisotropy values (0.366; IQR 0.331-0.407) and higher apparent diffusion coefficient values (1.509 mm2/s; IQR 1.374-1.733 mm2/s) compared to patients with mild carpal tunnel syndrome. (0,423; IQR 0.324-0.526 and 1.293 mm2/s; IQR 0.967-1.514 mm2/s) CONCLUSION: Shear-wave elastography and diffusion tensor imaging are helpful imaging modalities in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome and assessing its severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Cingoz
- Istanbul University, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Department of Radiology, Turkey
| | | | - Deniz Can Alis
- Istanbul University, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Department of Radiology, Turkey
| | - Cesur Samanci
- Istanbul University, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Department of Radiology, Turkey
| | - Guzin Cakir Kandemirli
- Taksim Training and Research Hospital, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Turkey
| | - Nurten Uzun Adatepe
- Istanbul University, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Department of Neurology, Turkey
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Bortolotto C, Turpini E, Felisaz P, Fresilli D, Fiorina I, Raciti MV, Belloni E, Bottinelli O, Cantisani V, Calliada F. Median nerve evaluation by shear wave elastosonography: impact of "bone-proximity" hardening artifacts and inter-observer agreement. J Ultrasound 2017; 20:293-299. [PMID: 29204233 DOI: 10.1007/s40477-017-0267-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Peripheral nerves frequently travel close to the bone surface and are, therefore, prone to elastosonographic "bone-proximity" hardening artifacts. The impact of these artifacts on quantitative measurements of median nerve stiffness performed by shear wave elastosonography has not been explored. Our aim was to assess normal median nerve stiffness values at various locations. Materials and methods Thirty-six healthy volunteers (24 women and 12 men) aged between 25 and 40 years were evaluated. Two operators performed the evaluation: one expert (6 years of ultrasound experience) and one inexperienced operator (6 months' experience). The nerve was sampled in cross-section at three different locations: mid-forearm, immediately before the carpal tunnel and within the tunnel. The ultrasound scanner was equipped with a 14-MHz linear probe. The Shear Wave module was activated in one-shot mode. Measurements were performed using a ROI corresponding to the diameter of the nerve. Results The mean values of stiffness of the medial nerve were 32.26 kPa ± 18.60 within the carpal tunnel, 22.20 kPa ± 9.84 at the carpal tunnel inlet and 7.62 kPa ± 7.38 in the forearm. Inter-observer agreement assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was "moderate" within the carpal tunnel (ICC = 0.44), "moderate" at the carpal tunnel inlet (ICC = 0.41) and "fair" in the forearm (ICC = 0.38). Conclusions The stiffness of the median nerve progressively increases in its distal portions, where the nerve approaches the bone surface. Inter-observer agreement was generally good (from fair to moderate).
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandra Bortolotto
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elena Turpini
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Paolo Felisaz
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Daniele Fresilli
- Department of Radiology, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Fiorina
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Elena Belloni
- Department of Radiology, Civil Hospital, Castel San Giovanni, Italy
| | - Olivia Bottinelli
- Department of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Vito Cantisani
- Department of Radiology, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Calliada
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
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A Pilot Study of Strain Elastography in the Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. J Clin Neurophysiol 2017; 34:114-118. [PMID: 27560304 DOI: 10.1097/wnp.0000000000000334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Strain elastography that uses the body's cardiorespiratory pulsations to determine tissue stiffness (referred to here as "ambient strain elastography") has not been previously described for the assessment of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The objective of this study is to assess the reliability of ultrasonographic ambient strain elastography in the evaluation of CTS and compare median nerve stiffness between patients and healthy controls. METHODS Ambient strain elastography was used to examine the wrists of 17 patients and 26 controls in cross-sectional and longitudinal views, twice by two observers. The strain ratio between the median nerve and nearby tendons was obtained and tested for intrarater and interrater reliability and differences between patients and healthy controls. RESULTS Intrarater and interrater reliabilities were strong, even for the less experienced rater (lowest r = 0.566, highest r = 0.905; P < 0.001 for all comparisons). No significant difference in strain ratio between those with CTS and controls was detected (cross-sectional image P = 0.32; longitudinal image P = 0.20). Strain ratio did not correlate significantly with traditional ultrasound measures of CTS (lowest P = 0.26) but did correlate significantly with body mass index if obtained from cross-sectional images (r = 0.346; P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS This strain elastography method is reliable but does not show changes in median nerve stiffness with CTS. Body mass index may influence elastography and further studies should be conducted to clarify this relationship.
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Miyamoto H, Morizaki Y, Kashiyama T, Tanaka S. Grey-scale sonography and sonoelastography for diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome. World J Radiol 2016; 8:281-287. [PMID: 27027498 PMCID: PMC4807337 DOI: 10.4329/wjr.v8.i3.281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Revised: 12/06/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common peripheral entrapment neuropathy of the median nerve at wrist level, and is thought to be caused by compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel. There is no standard quantitative reference for the diagnosis of CTS. Grey-scale sonography and sonoelastography (SEL) have been used as diagnostic tools. The most commonly agreed findings in grey-scale sonography for the diagnosis of CTS is enlargement of the median nerve cross-sectional area (CSA). Several authors have assessed additional parameters. “Delta CSA” is the difference between the proximal median nerve CSA at the pronator quadratus and the maximal CSA within the carpal tunnel. The “CSA ratio” is the ratio of CSA in the carpal tunnel to the CSA at the mid forearm. These additional parameters showed better diagnostic accuracy than CSA measurement alone. Recently, a number of studies have investigated the elasticity of the median nerve using SEL, and have shown that this also has diagnostic value, as it was significantly stiffer in CTS patients compared to healthy volunteers. In this review, we summarize the usefulness of grey-scale sonography and SEL in diagnosing CTS.
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