|
1
|
Savage NJ, McKell JS. Exploring Divergent Electrodiagnostic and Sonographic Findings in Patients With Suspected Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Role of Median Nerve Cross-Sectional Area. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2025. [PMID: 40205809 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.23981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2025] [Revised: 02/24/2025] [Accepted: 03/10/2025] [Indexed: 04/11/2025]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Evaluate electrophysiologic and sonographic findings in patients with suspected carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) that had divergent electrodiagnostic (EDX) and ultrasound imaging (USI) diagnoses of CTS. METHODS Retrospective analysis of 665 limbs from patients who underwent EDX testing and USI. MANOVA, Chi Square, and correlations were used to analyze electrophysiologic and sonographic variables in limbs with divergent findings. CTS diagnosis was determined using EDX- and USI-based classification systems, stratified by median nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) cutoff values producing large conclusive or small questionable shifts in diagnostic probability. RESULTS The proportion of limbs with a USI diagnosis of CTS but normal electrophysiologic findings was 17% and 35% when considering CSA cutoff values producing large conclusive and small questionable shifts in diagnostic probability, respectively. These limbs had significantly slower median sensory and motor latencies and larger distal and delta CSA compared to limbs with concordant findings. Conversely, the proportion of limbs with an EDX diagnosis of CTS but normal sonographic findings was 6% and 35% when considering CSA cutoff values producing large conclusive and small questionable shifts in diagnostic probability, respectively. These limbs had faster median motor latency, larger proximal and smaller distal and delta CSA compared to limbs with concordant findings. CONCLUSIONS Median nerve CSA proved to be the most reliable and clinically meaningful factor in limbs with divergent EDX and USI diagnoses of CTS regardless of diagnostic accuracy threshold. These results underscore the importance of integrating EDX testing and USI in patients with suspected CTS, particularly in cases with inconclusive or conflicting findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathan J Savage
- Department of Physical Therapy, Winston-Salem State University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - John S McKell
- Department of Physical Therapy, McKell Therapy Group, LLC, Orem, Utah, USA
| |
Collapse
|
|
2
|
Fowler JR. The Use of Musculoskeletal Ultrasound for Diagnosis of Peripheral Nerve Compression Syndromes. J Hand Surg Am 2025; 50:481-490. [PMID: 39665731 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2024.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2024] [Revised: 10/09/2024] [Accepted: 11/10/2024] [Indexed: 12/13/2024]
Abstract
Musculoskeletal ultrasound has emerged as a reasonable alternative to electrodiagnostic studies in the diagnostic work-up of carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, and other peripheral nerve compression syndromes. Chronic nerve compression results in nerve edema, which can be measured using ultrasound and reported as increased cross-sectional area. If the cross-sectional area exceeds predetermined cutoffs, a diagnosis can be made. The purpose of this review was to summarize the literature regarding the use of ultrasound for the diagnosis of peripheral nerve compression syndromes.
Collapse
|
|
3
|
Snoj Ž, Omejec G, Javh J, Umek N. Ultrasound Speckle Tracking Method Based on Gradient Optical Flow to Quantify Small Longitudinal Displacement, Shear and Longitudinal Strain in Peripheral Nerves. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2025; 51:280-287. [PMID: 39477744 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2024.10.002] [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: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 09/30/2024] [Accepted: 10/06/2024] [Indexed: 12/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to develop, validate and test the clinical feasibility of ultrasound (US) speckle tracking method based on gradient optical flow for quantifying small longitudinal displacements, shear and strain in peripheral nerves. METHODS The speckle tracking method was validated using seven thawed, fresh-frozen isolated cadaveric forearms. Longitudinal motion of the median nerve was captured using a high-frequency 22 MHz linear probe. An air bubble marker was inserted as a reference point for manual measurement comparison. The precision and accuracy of the method were assessed by comparing manual and automatic measurements. Clinical feasibility was tested on eight healthy subjects, measuring the longitudinal displacement of the median nerve during elbow extension and shoulder anteflexion. RESULTS The method demonstrated linearity, high precision and accuracy, particularly with a backtrace of five frames, reducing the displacement underestimation to 4%. In cadaveric models, the highest shear strain was observed at the nerve-tissue interfaces. In healthy subjects, the mean displacement of the median nerve was 3.3 ± 1.0 mm, with good inter-rater reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.87). CONCLUSION The US speckle tracking method based on gradient optical flow effectively quantifies small longitudinal displacements and shear strain in peripheral nerves, with high precision and accuracy. However, the method could not detect longitudinal strain in nerves within the range of tested displacements. Future studies should investigate its applicability to smaller and deeper nerves and its usefulness in different pathological conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Žiga Snoj
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia; Clinical Institute of Radiology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Omejec
- Division of Neurology, Institute of Clinical Neurophysiology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia; The Higher Education Institution Fizioterapevtika, Medvode, Slovenia
| | | | - Nejc Umek
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| |
Collapse
|
|
4
|
Sheen S, Ahmed A, Raiford ME, Jones CMC, Morrison E, Hauber K, Orsini J, Hammert WC, Speach D. Association between electrodiagnosis and neuromuscular ultrasound in the diagnosis and assessment of severity of carpal tunnel syndrome. PM R 2024; 16:1190-1194. [PMID: 38529791 DOI: 10.1002/pmrj.13168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuromuscular ultrasound plays an increasing role in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). There are limited data supporting the correlation between the electrodiagnostic studies and ultrasound measurements in CTS. OBJECTIVE To assess the association between different electrodiagnostic severities and ultrasound measurements of the median nerve in CTS. DESIGN A retrospective cohort study. SETTING An academic tertiary care center. PATIENTS Patients 18 years or older evaluated with upper limb electrodiagnostic studies and neuromuscular ultrasound. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENT Ultrasound measurements of the median nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) at the wrist and the calculated wrist-to-forearm ratio (WFR) were compared with the electrodiagnostic severity (normal, mild, moderate, and severe). Mean analysis and analysis of variance test (α = 0.05) were performed to assess the association. RESULTS A total of 1359 limbs were identified. There was a statistically significant association between electrodiagnostic severity of CTS and median nerve CSA at the wrist (p < .001), as well as the WFR (p < .001). The mean median nerve CSA at the wrist and WFR were 7.01 ± 2.06 mm2 (95% CI: 6.80-7.20) and 1.24 ± 0.36 (95% CI: 1.16-1.24) in electrodiagnostically normal median nerves, 10.47 ± 2.82 mm2 (95% CI: 10.25-10.75) and 2.06 ± 0.67 (95% CI: 2.04-2.16) in electrodiagnostically mild CTS, 12.95 ± 4.74 mm2 (95% CI: 12.41-13.59) and 2.49 ± 1.04 (95% CI: 2.37, 2.63) in electrodiagnostically moderate CTS, and 14.69 ± 5.38 mm2 (95% CI: 13.95-15.44) and 2.71 ± 1.02 (95% CI: 2.56-2.84) in electrodiagnostically severe CTS, respectively. CONCLUSION This study suggests a direct association between electrodiagnostic severity and ultrasound measurements of the median nerve in patients with suspected CTS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soun Sheen
- Department of PM&R, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
- Department of Pain Medicine, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Aabra Ahmed
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Mattie E Raiford
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Courtney M C Jones
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Eric Morrison
- Department of PM&R, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Kurt Hauber
- Department of PM&R, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - John Orsini
- Department of PM&R, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Warren C Hammert
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - David Speach
- Department of PM&R, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
|
5
|
Bîrsanu L, Vulpoi GA, Cuciureanu DI, Antal CD, Popescu IR, Turliuc DM. Carpal tunnel syndrome related to rheumatic disease (Review). Exp Ther Med 2024; 28:389. [PMID: 39161613 PMCID: PMC11332155 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2024.12678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most commonly occurring type of entrapment neuropathy in the world. Several conditions may contribute to the development of CTS, such as obesity, repetitive wrist movements, pregnancy, genetic predisposition and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) inflammation. CTS is characterized by a wide range of pathophysiological factors, including increased pressure, mechanical trauma and ischemic damage to the median nerve that runs through the wrist tunnel. In the present narrative literature review, the way rheumatic diseases (RDs) contribute to CTS occurrence is investigated. The epidemiological, clinical, paraclinical and pathogenesis aspects of the relationship are examined. CTS is the most common neurological finding in RA, and incidences of RA, psoriatic arthritis and CTS are closely related. The association of CTS with systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren's syndrome, Behcet's disease and systemic sclerosis is weaker. In these cases, the prevalence of CTS is similar to that in the general population. As the occurrence of CTS is increasing, understanding the common mechanism and making an early diagnosis are required to limit pain and costs. When patients with RD present with symptoms such as wrist pain, tingling sensations or numbness in their fingers, CTS should be suspected. This suspicion should not be interpreted in terms of RD. To accurately evaluate patients with RD, a detailed electrophysiological examination should be included in the evaluation process. A diagnostic algorithm should include neuromuscular ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging for patients with RD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lenuța Bîrsanu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy ‘Grigore T. Popa’, Iași 700115, Romania
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital, Iași 700081, Romania
| | - Georgiana-Anca Vulpoi
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy ‘Grigore T. Popa’, Iași 700115, Romania
- Dorna Medical Clinic, Iași 700022, Romania
| | - Dan Iulian Cuciureanu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy ‘Grigore T. Popa’, Iași 700115, Romania
- Neurology Department 1, Clinical Emergency Hospital ‘Prof. Dr. Nicolae Oblu’, Iași 700309, Romania
| | - Cristian Dorin Antal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy ‘Grigore T. Popa’, Iași 700115, Romania
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital, Iași 700081, Romania
| | - Ionut Raducu Popescu
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy ‘Grigore T. Popa’, Iași 700115, Romania
| | - Dana Mihaela Turliuc
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy ‘Grigore T. Popa’, Iași 700115, Romania
- Neurosurgery Department 2, Clinical Emergency Hospital ‘Prof. Dr. Nicolae Oblu’, Iasi 700309, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
|
6
|
Xu R, Ren L, Zhang X, Qian Z, Wu J, Liu J, Li Y, Ren L. Non-invasive in vivo study of morphology and mechanical properties of the median nerve. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1329960. [PMID: 38665817 PMCID: PMC11043530 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1329960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The current literature studied the median nerve (MN) at specific locations during joint motions. As only a few particular parts of the nerve are depicted, the relevant information available is limited. This experiment investigated the morphological and biomechanical properties of the MN. The effects of the shoulder and wrist motions on MN were explored as well. Eight young healthy female individuals were tested with two-dimensional ultrasound and shear wave elastography (SWE). The morphological and biomechanical properties were examined in limb position 1, with the wrist at the neutral position, the elbow extended at 180°, and the shoulder abducted at 60°. In addition, the experiment assessed the differences among the wrist, forearm, elbow, and upper arm with Friedman's test and Bonferroni post hoc analysis. Two groups of limb positions were designed to explore the effects of shoulder movements (shoulder abducted at 90° and 120°) and wrist movements (wrist extended at 45° and flexed at 45°) on the thickness and Young's modulus. Differences among the distributions of five limb positions were tested as well. The ICC3, 1 values for thickness and Young's modulus were 0.976 and 0.996, respectively. There were differences among the MN thicknesses of four arm locations in limb position 1, while Young's modulus was higher at the elbow and wrist than at the forearm and upper arm. Compared to limb position 1, only limb position 4 had an effect on MN thickness at the wrist. Both shoulder and wrist motions affected MN Young's modulus, and the stiffness variations at typical locations all showed a downward trend proximally in all. The distributions of MN thickness and Young's modulus showed fold line patterns but differed at the wrist and the pronator teres. The MN in the wrist is more susceptible to limb positions, and Young's modulus is sensitive to nerve changes and is more promising for the early diagnosis of neuropathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruixia Xu
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lei Ren
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- School of Medical Informatics and Engineering, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Zhihui Qian
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jianan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ying Li
- Editorial Department of Journal of Bionic Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Luquan Ren
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| |
Collapse
|
|
7
|
Gasemaltayeb R, Wannarong T, Ticku H, Preston DC. Neuromuscular ultrasound: Impact on diagnosis and management. Muscle Nerve 2024; 69:295-302. [PMID: 37818726 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIM High-resolution ultrasound (HRUS) is increasingly used in evaluating neuromuscular conditions. Its potential advantages include its ability to discern anatomic information and make specific etiological diagnoses. Although many studies have demonstrated HRUS effectiveness, especially in mononeuropathies, more information is needed to better determine how often and to what extent useful information is obtained; how it influences diagnosis, clinical decision-making, and patient management; and how it is used with electrodiagnostic (EDx) studies. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was performed on patients referred for HRUS at a university laboratory during 2021. Demographic information, referral diagnoses, clinical information, HRUS findings, and follow-up patient management were analyzed. For patients who had EDx, results were compared with HRUS. Determinations were made whether HRUS did or did not aid in the diagnosis. For patients in whom HRUS resulted in a diagnosis, determination was made whether it confirmed the diagnosis made clinically or by EDx but did not change management; added additional important information; and/or made a decisive impact on subsequent management. RESULTS Five hundred two patients were analyzed, most referred for mononeuropathy, brachial plexopathy, and polyneuropathy. HRUS was abnormal in 81.7% of patients. HRUS added additional useful information in 79.0% and was decisive in management in 62.7%. In patients who also had abnormal EDx, HRUS resulted in decisive management in 49.5%. DISCUSSION HRUS is an effective diagnostic tool that frequently adds localizing and structural information that is otherwise not obtainable by clinical and EDx evaluation. In a substantial number of patients selected for HRUS, it is decisive in guiding further management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raed Gasemaltayeb
- Neurological Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Thapat Wannarong
- Neuromuscular Division, Department of Neurology, Duke University Hospital, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Hemani Ticku
- Neurological Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - David C Preston
- Neurological Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| |
Collapse
|
|
8
|
Yahia M, El Shambaky A, Lasheen D. Elastosonography and electrodiagnosis in relation to symptomatic and functional grading of carpal tunnel syndrome. Arch Rheumatol 2023; 38:620-632. [PMID: 38125057 PMCID: PMC10728749 DOI: 10.46497/archrheumatol.2023.10022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study focused on the symptomatic and the functional evaluation in correlations to median nerve elasticity, its ultrasound parameters, and the electrodiagnostic grading of primary carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) patients. Patients and methods In the case-control study, 100 wrists of 57 CTS patients (54 females, 3 males; mean age: 39±9.8 years; range, 20 to 60 years) clinically diagnosed according to the American Academy of Neurology Clinical Diagnostic Criteria were evaluated between December 2019 and December 2020. The control group included 110 nondiseased wrists of 55 sex- and age-matched healthy subjects (males 7, females 48; mean age: 35.7±10.3 years; range 20 to 58 years). Functional assessment using Hi-Ob-Db clinical scale, electrodiagnosis, ultrasonographic screening, and elasticity evaluation were done for all patients. Results CTS patients had an increased stiffness of the median nerve compared to controls. Functional stages were positively correlated with the ultrasonographic parameters and the electrodiagnostic stages of CTS. The elastogram of clinically diagnosed patients was revealed more stiffness of the MN, with negative electrodiagnosis results. Conclusion Clinically diagnosed CTS could be missed by the electrodiagnosis but then properly figured by ultrasonography and potentially graded by sonoelastography. Sonoelastography may be an effective method for early diagnosis and appropriate grading of CTS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marwa Yahia
- Department of Rheumatology, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Ahmed El Shambaky
- Department of Rheumatology, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Doaa Lasheen
- Department of Rheumatology, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
|
9
|
Portland TE, Strowd RE, Cartwright MS. Pearls & Oy-sters: Case of Atypical Peripheral Nerve Findings Following Paclitaxel for Breast Cancer. Neurology 2023; 101:e451-e454. [PMID: 36878699 PMCID: PMC10435055 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000207175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuromuscular ultrasound (NMUS) is a valuable tool in establishing a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and can be particularly helpful in patients with clinical CTS but normal nerve conduction studies (NCSs). This case involves the uncommon presentation of enlarged median nerves on NMUS with normal NCS in a patient with breast cancer who developed chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and CTS after taxane treatment. This case demonstrates that CTS should not be excluded based on electrodiagnostic studies alone, and comorbid CTS should be considered in patients receiving neurotoxic chemotherapy, even in the setting of normal NCS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taylor E Portland
- From the Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC.
| | - Roy E Strowd
- From the Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Michael S Cartwright
- From the Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
| |
Collapse
|
|
10
|
Yeh CL, Wu CH, Hsiao MY, Kuo PL. Real-Time Automated Segmentation of Median Nerve in Dynamic Ultrasonography Using Deep Learning. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2023; 49:1129-1136. [PMID: 36740461 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2022.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The morphological dynamics of the median nerve across the level extracted from dynamic ultrasonography are valuable for the diagnosis and evaluation of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), but the data extraction requires tremendous labor to manually segment the nerve across the image sequence. Our aim was to provide visually real-time, automated median nerve segmentation and subsequent data extraction in dynamic ultrasonography. METHODS We proposed a deep-learning model modified from SOLOv2 and tailored for median nerve segmentation. Ensemble strategies combining several state-of-the-art models were also employed to examine whether the segmentation accuracy could be improved. Image data were acquired from nine normal participants and 59 patients with idiopathic CTS. DISCUSSION Our model outperformed several state-of-the-art models with respect to inference speed, whereas the segmentation accuracy was on a par with that achieved by these models. When evaluated on a single 1080Ti GPU card, our model achieved an intersection over union score of 0.855 and Dice coefficient of 0.922 at 28.9 frames/s. The ensemble models slightly improved segmentation accuracy. CONCLUSION Our model has great potential for use in the clinical setting, as the real-time, automated extraction of the morphological dynamics of the median nerve allows clinicians to diagnose and treat CTS as the images are acquired.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Liang Yeh
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Electronics and Bioinformatics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chueh-Hung Wu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Yen Hsiao
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Po-Ling Kuo
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Electronics and Bioinformatics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Electrical Engineering Department, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
|
11
|
Moschovos C, Tsivgoulis G, Ghika A, Bakola E, Papadopoulou M, Zis P, Zouvelou V, Salakou S, Papagiannopoulou G, Kotsali-Peteinelli V, Chroni E, Kyrozis A. Image analysis can reliably quantify median nerve echogenicity and texture changes in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. Clin Neurophysiol 2023; 149:61-69. [PMID: 36907099 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2023.02.171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the ability of image analysis measures to quantify echotexture changes of median nerve in order to provide a complementary diagnostic tool in CTS. METHODS Image analysis measures (gray level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM), brightness, hypoechoic area percentage using max entropy and mean threshold) were calculated in normalized images of 39 (19 younger and 20 older than 65y) healthy controls and 95 CTS patients (37 younger and 58 older than 65y). RESULTS Image analysis measures were equivalent or superior (older patients) to subjective visual analysis. In younger patients, GLCM measures showed equivalent diagnostic accuracy with cross sectional area (CSA) (Area Under Curve (AUC for inverse different moment = 0.97). In older patients all image analysis measures showed similar diagnostic accuracy to CSA (AUC for brightness = 0.88). Moreover, they had abnormal values in many older patients with normal CSA values. CONCLUSIONS Image analysis reliably quantifies median nerve echotexture alterations in CTS and offers similar diagnostic accuracy to CSA measurement. SIGNIFICANCE Image analysis may offer added value to existing measures in the evaluation of CTS, especially in older patients. Its clinical implementation would require incorporation of mathematically simple software code for online nerve image analysis in ultrasound machines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christos Moschovos
- Second Department of Neurology, "Attikon" Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Chaidari 12462, Athens, Greece.
| | - Georgios Tsivgoulis
- Second Department of Neurology, "Attikon" Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Chaidari 12462, Athens, Greece; First Department of Neurology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Apostolia Ghika
- First Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Bakola
- Second Department of Neurology, "Attikon" Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Chaidari 12462, Athens, Greece
| | - Marianna Papadopoulou
- Second Department of Neurology, "Attikon" Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Chaidari 12462, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Zis
- Second Department of Neurology, "Attikon" Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Chaidari 12462, Athens, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Zouvelou
- First Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Stavroula Salakou
- First Department of Neurology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Georgia Papagiannopoulou
- Second Department of Neurology, "Attikon" Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Chaidari 12462, Athens, Greece
| | - Vassiliki Kotsali-Peteinelli
- Second Department of Neurology, "Attikon" Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Chaidari 12462, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Andreas Kyrozis
- First Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
|
12
|
LIM JX, WANG F, HO YX, ER JH, VIJAYAN J, SEBASTIN SJ. Normative Value of the Cross-Sectional Area of the Median Nerve at the Carpal Tunnel Inlet and Distal Forearm in the Singapore Population. J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol 2022; 27:649-655. [DOI: 10.1142/s242483552250062x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background: Ultrasonography is often used in the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). However, we were unable to find normative data regarding the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the median nerve in the Singapore population as measured by ultrasound. The aims of this study were to establish normative values of the CSA of the median nerve at the carpal tunnel inlet in a healthy population, 5 cm proximal to the carpal tunnel inlet, and to determine if the CSA correlated with side, age, gender or race. Methods: Sixty-nine wrists of 36 healthy subjects with no history of wrist injury or any signs and symptoms of CTS were examined. The CSA of the median nerve at the carpal tunnel inlet and 5 cm proximal to the carpal tunnel inlet was determined using ultrasound by a trained operator. Results: The mean CSA of the median nerve at the carpal tunnel inlet was 6.41 mm2 (SD 2.18 mm2). These were not significantly different from the values for mean CSA obtained 5 cm proximal to the carpal tunnel inlet. We did not find any correlation between the CSA of the median nerve and age, gender or race. Conclusions: The mean CSA of the median nerve at the carpal tunnel inlet in normal subjects in Singapore was found to be lower than other Asian populations. Wide variations of the median nerve CSA at the carpal tunnel inlet exists in the literature, and this is probably due to the heterogeneity of the study methodology and population. Level of Evidence: Level III (Diagnostic)
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin X. LIM
- Department of Hand and Reconstructive Microsurgery, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Feifan WANG
- Department of Hand and Reconstructive Microsurgery, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Yih X.C. HO
- Department of Hand and Reconstructive Microsurgery, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Jian H. ER
- Department of Hand and Reconstructive Microsurgery, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Joy VIJAYAN
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Sandeep J. SEBASTIN
- Department of Hand and Reconstructive Microsurgery, National University Hospital, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
|
13
|
Kim D, Oh J, Min HK, Kim HR, Choi K. A pilot study of nailfold capillaroscopy in hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis. Sci Rep 2022; 12:11715. [PMID: 35810210 PMCID: PMC9271069 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15779-2] [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: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC) is a safe and non-invasive imaging tool for evaluating microvascular abnormalities. This retrospective cross-sectional study aimed to analyze the NFC outcomes and clinical characteristics in patients and an asymptomatic carrier with transthyretin (TTR) gene mutation. The participants consist of eight patients with genetically and clinically confirmed hereditary amyloidogenic transthyretin (ATTRv) amyloidosis and one asymptomatic carrier. The TTR gene mutant forms of six male and three female participants from six families were Asp38Ala (five patients), Lys35Asn (three patients), and Ala36Pro (one patient). All participants showed decreased capillary density, dilatated capillaries, and destructed architecture in NFC. Early progression identification of a carrier to patients with symptoms is a major concern from a therapeutic viewpoint in ATTRv amyloidosis. Therefore, further studies with a larger number of subjects will be needed to determine the use of NFC as an early detection tool.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dayoung Kim
- Department of Neurology, Konkuk University Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeeyoung Oh
- Department of Neurology, Konkuk University Medical Center, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Ki Min
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Konkuk University Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Rim Kim
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Konkuk University Medical Center, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyomin Choi
- Department of Neurology, Konkuk University Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
|
14
|
Systematic Review of the Use of Power Doppler Ultrasound in the Imaging of Peripheral Nerve Compression Neuropathy. Plast Reconstr Surg 2022; 149:48e-56e. [PMID: 34936616 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000008627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Power Doppler ultrasonography has been used as an adjunct in the diagnosis of peripheral nerve compression neuropathy. To better characterize its sensitivity and specificity, the authors performed a systematic review of its use in carpal and cubital tunnel syndrome diagnosis. METHODS The authors systematically reviewed published literature on the use of power Doppler ultrasound to diagnose peripheral compression neuropathy using Ovid MEDLINE, Embase.com, Scopus, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Health Technology Assessment Database, NHS Economic Evaluation Database, World Health Organization International Clinical Trial Repository Platform, and Clinicaltrials.gov. No filters for language, date, or publication type were used. RESULTS After reviewing 1538 identified studies, 27 publications were included involving 1751 participants with compression neuropathy (2048 median and 172 ulnar). All but three studies examined patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. Heterogeneity between study design and methodology was a noted limitation. Sensitivity and specificity of power Doppler ultrasound in the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome ranged from 2.2 to 93.4 percent, and 89 to 100 percent, respectively, whereas sensitivity for cubital tunnel syndrome was 15.3 to 78.9 percent. There was variability in power Doppler signal detection based on location, with higher sensitivities at the carpal tunnel inlet and in areas of increased nerve swelling. CONCLUSIONS Power Doppler ultrasound is unreliable as a screening test but appears to increase diagnostic accuracy of ultrasonography in compression neuropathies. It is most beneficial in moderate to severe disease and may be valuable in detecting early cases and in disease surveillance.
Collapse
|
|
15
|
Jorgensen SP, Cartwright MS, Norbury J. Neuromuscular Ultrasound: Indications in the Electrodiagnostic Laboratory. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2022; 101:78-88. [PMID: 33990480 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000001790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Accurate assessment of neuromuscular disorders is critical to facilitate timely treatment and achieve the best outcomes. Historically, electrodiagnostic studies have filled this role, but recently, neuromuscular ultrasound is being used in the electrodiagnostic laboratory. This review discusses the uses of neuromuscular ultrasound in the electrodiagnostic laboratory that have strong evidence, emphasizing those that could be adopted in a typical electrodiagnostic laboratory with a reasonable level of equipment and training. The evidence currently supports using neuromuscular ultrasound to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome and ulnar neuropathies at the elbow and as a supplementary test when electrodiagnostic studies are suspected to be falsely negative or in axonal nonlocalizing lesions. Neuromuscular ultrasound can identify the causes of focal mononeuropathies, which can change treatment in specific cases. It is sensitive at identifying fasciculations and providing complementary evidence of autoimmune demyelinating polyneuropathies. It is particularly helpful in assessing nerves after trauma. Neuromuscular ultrasound is likely to prove even more useful in the electrodiagnostic laboratory as the technology continues to advance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shawn P Jorgensen
- From the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York (SPJ); Department of Family Medicine, Larner Medical College at the University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont (SPJ); Adirondack Rehabilitation Medicine, PLLC, Queensbury, New York (SPJ); Department of Neurology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina (MSC); and Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Neurology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas (JN)
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
|
16
|
Automated Segmentation of Median Nerve in Dynamic Sonography Using Deep Learning: Evaluation of Model Performance. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11101893. [PMID: 34679591 PMCID: PMC8534332 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11101893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an emerging trend to employ dynamic sonography in the diagnosis of entrapment neuropathy, which exhibits aberrant spatiotemporal characteristics of the entrapped nerve when adjacent tissues move. However, the manual tracking of the entrapped nerve in consecutive images demands tons of human labors and impedes its popularity clinically. Here we evaluated the performance of automated median nerve segmentation in dynamic sonography using a variety of deep learning models pretrained with ImageNet, including DeepLabV3+, U-Net, FPN, and Mask-R-CNN. Dynamic ultrasound images of the median nerve at across wrist level were acquired from 52 subjects diagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome when they moved their fingers. The videos of 16 subjects exhibiting diverse appearance and that of the remaining 36 subjects were used for model test and training, respectively. The centroid, circularity, perimeter, and cross section area of the median nerve in individual frame were automatically determined from the inferred nerve. The model performance was evaluated by the score of intersection over union (IoU) between the annotated and model-predicted data. We found that both DeepLabV3+ and Mask R-CNN predicted median nerve the best with averaged IOU scores close to 0.83, which indicates the feasibility of automated median nerve segmentation in dynamic sonography using deep learning.
Collapse
|
|
17
|
Patel K, Horak HA. Electrodiagnosis of Common Mononeuropathies: Median, Ulnar, and Fibular (Peroneal) Neuropathies. Neurol Clin 2021; 39:939-955. [PMID: 34602220 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2021.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
This article addresses common mononeuropathies seen in the electrodiagnostic laboratory. The most common mononeuropathies-median neuropathy at the wrist (carpal tunnel syndrome), ulnar neuropathy at the elbow, and fibular (peroneal) neuropathy at the fibular head-are reviewed. The causes, clinical presentations, approached to the electrodiagnostic studies (including nerve conduction studies and needle electromyography), and the typical findings are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kamakshi Patel
- University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), 301 University Boulevard, JSA 9.128, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Holli A Horak
- University of Arizona College of Medicine- Tucson, 1501 North Campbell Avenue, Room 6212a, Tucson, AZ 87524, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
|
18
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
|
19
|
Masci F, Spatari G, Giorgianni CM, Pernigotti E, Antonangeli LM, Bordoni V, Magenta Biasina A, Pietrogrande L, Colosio C. Hand-Wrist Disorders in Chainsaw Operators: A Follow-Up Study in a Group of Italian Loggers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18147217. [PMID: 34299668 PMCID: PMC8307102 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18147217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Despite the mechanization process implemented in arboriculture, logging tasks are still manually performed by chainsaw operators, which therefore are exposed to the risk of developing hand-wrist musculoskeletal disorders. Our research aimed to: (a) define whether the slight changes observed in 2017 showed an evolution to overt diseases; (b) study some risk determinants for these diseases such as age, working experience, and performing a secondary job. We recruited in a two-year follow-up study, 38 male forestry workers performing logging tasks employed in the Sicilian Forestry Department located in Enna. All the subjects underwent: (1) personal data collection; (2) administration of questionnaire addressed at upper limbs symptoms with a hand chart; (3) physical examination of the upper limbs, including Tinel’s and Phalen’s maneuvers; (4) ultrasound investigation of the hand-wrist area. In the two-year follow-up study we registered an overall increasing in wrist disorders, thus we can assume that forestry workers may be a target population for wrist diseases and deserve a particular attention in workers’ health surveillance programs. Interestingly, the prevalence of wrist-hand disorders resulted to be higher in younger workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Masci
- Department of Health Sciences of the University of Milano and International Centre for Rural Health of the Occupational Health Unit of the Hospitals Santi Paolo e Carlo, 20142 Milano, Italy; (L.M.A.); (C.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Giovanna Spatari
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.S.); (C.M.G.)
| | - Concetto Mario Giorgianni
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.S.); (C.M.G.)
| | - Elisa Pernigotti
- Post Graduate School in Orthopedics and Traumatology, University of Milan, 20142 Milano, Italy;
| | - Laura Maria Antonangeli
- Department of Health Sciences of the University of Milano and International Centre for Rural Health of the Occupational Health Unit of the Hospitals Santi Paolo e Carlo, 20142 Milano, Italy; (L.M.A.); (C.C.)
| | - Vittorio Bordoni
- Post Graduate School in Occupational Medicine, University of Milan, 20122 Milano, Italy;
| | - Alberto Magenta Biasina
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology School of Santi Paolo and Carlo ASST of Milan, 20142 Milano, Italy;
| | - Luca Pietrogrande
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20142 Milano, Italy;
| | - Claudio Colosio
- Department of Health Sciences of the University of Milano and International Centre for Rural Health of the Occupational Health Unit of the Hospitals Santi Paolo e Carlo, 20142 Milano, Italy; (L.M.A.); (C.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
|
20
|
Smart BD, Cartwright MS. Neuromuscular ultrasound as the sole diagnostic test for carpal tunnel syndrome in Hunter syndrome. Muscle Nerve 2021; 64:E9-E11. [PMID: 34050942 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin D Smart
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Michael S Cartwright
- Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
|
21
|
Abstract
Peripheral nerve imaging is a helpful and sometimes essential adjunct to clinical history, physical examination, and electrodiagnostic studies. Advances in imaging technology have allowed the visualization of nerve structures and their surrounding tissues. The clinical applications of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the evaluation of peripheral nerve disorders are growing exponentially. This article reviews basics of ultrasound and MRI as they relate to nerve imaging, reviews advantages and limitations of each imaging modality, reviews the applications of ultrasound and MRI in disorders of peripheral nerve, and discusses emerging advances in the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia L Gonzalez
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, Duke University, Duke University Hospital, 3403 DUMC, Duke South Clinic 1L, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
| | - Lisa D Hobson-Webb
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, Duke University, Duke University Hospital, 3403 DUMC, Duke South Clinic 1L, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| |
Collapse
|
|
22
|
Faeghi F, Ardakani AA, Acharya UR, Mirza-Aghazadeh-Attari M, Abolghasemi J, Ejtehadifar S, Mohammadi A. Accurate automated diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome using radiomics features with ultrasound images: A comparison with radiologists' assessment. Eur J Radiol 2021; 136:109518. [PMID: 33434859 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2020.109518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Ultrasonography is the most common imaging modality used to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Recently artificial intelligence algorithms have been used to diagnose musculoskeletal diseases accurately without human errors using medical images. In this work, a computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) system is developed using radiomics features extracted from median nerves (MN) to diagnose CTS accurately. METHOD This study is performed on 228 wrists from 65 patients and 57 controls, with an equal number of control and CTS wrists. Nerve conduction study (NCS) is considered as the gold standard in this study. Two radiologists used two guides to evaluate and categorize the pattern and echogenicity of MNs. Radiomics features are extracted from B-mode ultrasound images (Ultrasomics), and the robust features are fed into support vector machine classifier for automated classification. The diagnostic performances of two radiologists and the CAD system are evaluated using ROC analysis. RESULTS The agreement of two radiologists was excellent for both guide 1 and 2. The honey-comb pattern clearly appeared in control wrists (based on guide 1). In addition, CTS wrists indicated significantly lower number of fascicles in MNs (based on guide 2). The area under ROC curve (AUC) of the radiologist 1 and 2 are 0.658 and 0.667 based on guide 1 and 0.736 and 0.721 based on guide 2, respectively. The CAD system indicated higher performance than two radiologists with AUC of 0.926. CONCLUSION The proposed CAD system shows the benefit of using ultrasomics features and can assist radiologists to diagnose CTS accurately.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fariborz Faeghi
- Radiology Technology Department, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Ali Abbasian Ardakani
- Radiology Technology Department, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - U Rajendra Acharya
- School of Engineering, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Singapore; Department of Biomedical Informatics and Medical Engineering, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Singapore University of Social Sciences, Singapore.
| | | | - Jamileh Abolghasemi
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sajjad Ejtehadifar
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Science, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Afshin Mohammadi
- Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Science, Urmia, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
|
23
|
High-Resolution Nerve Ultrasound Abnormalities in POEMS Syndrome-A Comparative Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11020264. [PMID: 33572067 PMCID: PMC7915164 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11020264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: High-resolution nerve ultrasound (HRUS) has been proven to be a valuable tool in the diagnosis of immune-mediated neuropathies, such as chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP). POEMS syndrome (polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, M-protein, skin changes) is an important differential diagnosis of CIDP. Until now, there have been no studies that could identify specific HRUS abnormalities in POEMS syndrome patients. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess possible changes and compare findings with CIDP patients. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed HRUS findings in three POEMS syndrome and ten CIDP patients by evaluating cross-sectional nerve area (CSA), echogenicity and additionally calculating ultrasound pattern scores (UPSA, UPSB, UPSC and UPSS) and homogeneity scores (HS). Results: CIDP patients showed greater CSA enlargement and higher UPSS (median 14 vs. 11), UPSA (median 11.5 vs. 8) and HS (median 5 vs. 3) compared with POEMS syndrome patients. However, every POEMS syndrome patient illustrated enlarged nerves exceeding reference values, which were not restricted to entrapment sites. In CIDP and POEMS syndrome, heterogeneous enlargement patterns could be identified, such as inhomogeneous, homogeneous and regional nerve enlargement. HRUS in CIDP patients visualized both increased and decreased echointensity, while POEMS syndrome patients pictured hypoechoic nerves with hyperechoic intraneural connective tissue. Discussion: This is the first study to demonstrate HRUS abnormalities in POEMS syndrome outside of common entrapment sites. Although nerve enlargement was more prominent in CIDP, POEMS syndrome patients revealed distinct echogenicity patterns, which might aid in its differentiation from CIDP. Future studies should consider HRUS and its possible role in determining diagnosis, prognosis and treatment response in POEMS syndrome.
Collapse
|
|
24
|
Dörner M, Schreiber F, Stephanik H, Tempelmann C, Winter N, Stahl JH, Wittlinger J, Willikens S, Kramer M, Heinze HJ, Vielhaber S, Schelle T, Grimm A, Schreiber S. Peripheral Nerve Imaging Aids in the Diagnosis of Immune-Mediated Neuropathies-A Case Series. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:E535. [PMID: 32751486 PMCID: PMC7459443 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10080535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diagnosis of immune-mediated neuropathies and their differentiation from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) can be challenging, especially at early disease stages. Accurate diagnosis is, however, important due to the different prognosis and available treatment options. We present one patient with a left-sided dorsal flexor paresis and initial suspicion of ALS and another with multifocal sensory deficits. In both, peripheral nerve imaging was the key for diagnosis. METHODS We performed high-resolution nerve ultrasound (HRUS) and 7T or 3T magnetic resonance neurography (MRN). RESULTS In both patients, HRUS revealed mild to severe, segmental or inhomogeneous, nerve enlargement at multiple sites, as well as an area increase of isolated fascicles. MRN depicted T2 hyperintense nerves with additional contrast-enhancement. DISCUSSION Peripheral nerve imaging was compatible with the respective diagnosis of an immune-mediated neuropathy, i.e., multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) in patient 1 and multifocal acquired demyelinating sensory and motor neuropathy (MADSAM) in patient 2. Peripheral nerve imaging, especially HRUS, should play an important role in the diagnostic work-up for immune-mediated neuropathies and their differentiation from ALS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Dörner
- Center for Neurology, Tuebingen University Hospital and Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (N.W.); (J.-H.S.); (J.W.); (S.W.); (M.K.); (A.G.)
| | - Frank Schreiber
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany; (F.S.); (H.S.); (C.T.); (H.-J.H.); (S.V.); (S.S.)
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) within the Helmholtz Association, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Heike Stephanik
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany; (F.S.); (H.S.); (C.T.); (H.-J.H.); (S.V.); (S.S.)
| | - Claus Tempelmann
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany; (F.S.); (H.S.); (C.T.); (H.-J.H.); (S.V.); (S.S.)
| | - Natalie Winter
- Center for Neurology, Tuebingen University Hospital and Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (N.W.); (J.-H.S.); (J.W.); (S.W.); (M.K.); (A.G.)
| | - Jan-Hendrik Stahl
- Center for Neurology, Tuebingen University Hospital and Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (N.W.); (J.-H.S.); (J.W.); (S.W.); (M.K.); (A.G.)
| | - Julia Wittlinger
- Center for Neurology, Tuebingen University Hospital and Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (N.W.); (J.-H.S.); (J.W.); (S.W.); (M.K.); (A.G.)
| | - Sophia Willikens
- Center for Neurology, Tuebingen University Hospital and Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (N.W.); (J.-H.S.); (J.W.); (S.W.); (M.K.); (A.G.)
| | - Magdalena Kramer
- Center for Neurology, Tuebingen University Hospital and Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (N.W.); (J.-H.S.); (J.W.); (S.W.); (M.K.); (A.G.)
| | - Hans-Jochen Heinze
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany; (F.S.); (H.S.); (C.T.); (H.-J.H.); (S.V.); (S.S.)
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) within the Helmholtz Association, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioural Brain Sciences (CBBS), 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Leibniz Institue for Neurobiology (LIN), 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Vielhaber
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany; (F.S.); (H.S.); (C.T.); (H.-J.H.); (S.V.); (S.S.)
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) within the Helmholtz Association, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioural Brain Sciences (CBBS), 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Schelle
- Department of Neurology, Städtisches Klinikum Dessau, 06847 Dessau, Germany;
| | - Alexander Grimm
- Center for Neurology, Tuebingen University Hospital and Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany; (N.W.); (J.-H.S.); (J.W.); (S.W.); (M.K.); (A.G.)
| | - Stefanie Schreiber
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany; (F.S.); (H.S.); (C.T.); (H.-J.H.); (S.V.); (S.S.)
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) within the Helmholtz Association, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioural Brain Sciences (CBBS), 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
|
25
|
Carroll AS, Simon NG. Current and future applications of ultrasound imaging in peripheral nerve disorders. World J Radiol 2020; 12:101-129. [PMID: 32742576 PMCID: PMC7364285 DOI: 10.4329/wjr.v12.i6.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuromuscular ultrasound (NMUS) is a rapidly evolving technique used in neuromuscular medicine to provide complimentary information to standard electrodiagnostic studies. NMUS provides a dynamic, real time assessment of anatomy which can alter both diagnostic and management pathways in peripheral nerve disorders. This review describes the current and future techniques used in NMUS and details the applications and developments in the diagnosis and monitoring of compressive, hereditary, immune-mediated and axonal peripheral nerve disorders, and motor neuron diseases. Technological advances have allowed the increased utilisation of ultrasound for management of peripheral nerve disorders; however, several practical considerations need to be taken into account to facilitate the widespread uptake of this technique.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonia S Carroll
- Brain and Mind Research Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown 2050, NSW, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Westmead 2145, NSW, Australia
- Department of Neurology, St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney, Darlinghurst 2010, NSW, Australia
| | - Neil G Simon
- Northern Clinical School, University of Sydney, Frenchs Forest 2086, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
|
26
|
Abstract
Nerve imaging is an important component in the assessment of patients presenting with suspected peripheral nerve pathology. Although magnetic resonance neurography and ultrasound are the most commonly utilized techniques, several promising new modalities are on the horizon. Nerve imaging is useful in localizing the nerve injury, determining the severity, providing prognostic information, helping establish the diagnosis, and helping guide surgical decision making. The focus of this article is imaging of damaged nerves, focusing on nerve injuries and entrapment neuropathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David A Purger
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Sarada Sakamuri
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, 213 Quarry Road, MC 5979, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | - Nicholas F Hug
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Sandip Biswal
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, 300 Pasteur Drive, S-068B, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Thomas J Wilson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, 300 Pasteur Drive, R293, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
|
27
|
Norbury JW, Nazarian LN. Ultrasound‐guided treatment of peripheral entrapment mononeuropathies. Muscle Nerve 2019; 60:222-231. [DOI: 10.1002/mus.26517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- John W. Norbury
- Department of Physical Medicine and RehabilitationThe Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University 600 Moye Boulevard, Greenville North Carolina 27834 USA
| | - Levon N. Nazarian
- Department of RadiologySidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia Pennsylvania USA
| |
Collapse
|
|
28
|
Affiliation(s)
- Inge Petter Kleggetveit
- Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital-Rikshospitalet, P.b. 4950 Nydalen, 0424 Oslo, Norway
| | - Ellen Jørum
- Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital-Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
|
29
|
Abstract
Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Value of Ultrasound Compared to Nerve Conduction Studies Abstract. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common compression syndrome of the peripheral nerves. The patient's history with nocturnal brachialgia, daytime brachialgia, nocturnal paraesthesia and daytime paraesthesia (part of the 6-item CTS symptom scale) and a specific clinical exam take part while making a diagnosis. Additional diagnostics include electrophysiological testings. A high-resolution ultrasound examination for the evaluation of the morphology of the median nerve has gained importance in diagnosis of a carpal tunnel syndrome, whilst an electrophysiological exam allows a functional evaluation. Cardinal finding in ultrasound is an absolute or relative enlargement of the cross-section of the nerve at the edge proximal to the flexor retinaculum. Despite multiple studies that demonstrated ultrasound as a fist-line diagnostic tool, there is no consensus on optimal sonographic criteria for the definition of a compressed median nerve. Our aim was to demonstrate the use of ultrasound and electrophysiological exams for diagnostics of carpal tunnel syndrome in our own patient population and compared to the literature.
Collapse
|