Analyzing median nerve pathology
Focal neuropathy and flexor tenosynovitis present with similar symptoms but look very different on ultrasound. Learn how to differentiate focal neuropathy, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, from other pathologies.
Flexor tenosynovitis and ganglion cysts present with symptoms that are similar to those of the focal neuropathy seen in carpal tunnel syndrome. So, when a patient complains of numbness and pain in their wrist, how can you use ultrasound imaging to ensure a correct diagnosis?
Here’s how you can look for evidence of focal neuropathy:
- Hypoechoic signal in the nerve
- Cross-section area > 0.09 cm2
- Hourglass deformity of the nerve
Other conditions can mimic focal neuropathies, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
Check for evidence of tenosynovitis:
- Swelling of the flexor tendons
- Positive color Doppler signs indicating hyperemia
Check for the presence of a ganglion cyst
- Anechoic cystic mass compressing the median nerve
Watch the full lesson to learn how to identify the carpal tunnel structures on ultrasound and perform an examination of the focal median nerve.
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