ĐẶC ĐIỂM HÌNH ẢNH CỘNG HƯỞNG TỪ HỘI CHỨNG CHÈN ÉP DÂY THẦN KINH NGOẠI BIÊN: BÁO CÁO LOẠT CA HỒI CỨU

Abstract

Background: Entrapment neuropathies are diagnosed through a combination of clinical assessment, electrodiagnostic testing, and peripheral nerve magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Accurate interpretation requires familiarity with peripheral nerve anatomy and MRI appearances in normal and pathologic states. Purpose: To describe MRI features of peripheral nerve entrapment syndromes using a retrospective series of clinically confirmed cases, aiming to improve diagnostic accuracy and support appropriate treatment planning. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 18 patients (8 males, 10 females; age range, 10–54 years) diagnosed with peripheral nerve entrapment syndromes at Vinmec Times City International Hospital and Vinmec Smart City Hospital between August 2018 and July 2025. All patients underwent 3-T MRI, with findings correlated with clinical information and surgical results when available. Results: MRI was abnormal in all patients (18/18, 100%). The most common findings were increased T2 signal and denervation-related muscle changes (each 13/18, 72.2%); among denervation cases (n=13), edema predominated (12/13, 92%), with less frequent atrophy (3/13, 25%) and fatty infiltration (1/13, 7.7%). Nerve enlargement was seen in 10/18 (55%). A compressive cause was identified in 14/18 (77.8%) (eg, fibrous bands, cysts, hypertrophic muscle, masses, osteophytes, anatomic variants, posttraumatic fibrosis). Typical sites included the carpal tunnel (median), cubital tunnel (ulnar), spinoglenoid (suprascapular), and gluteal–thigh region (sciatic). MRI agreed with surgery or clinical follow-up in 15/18 (83.3%). Conclusion: Peripheral nerve MRI is valuable for diagnosing entrapment neuropathies by delineating nerve abnormalities and surrounding structures. Recognition of characteristic imaging features facilitates earlier diagnosis and helps guide treatment strategies, potentially improving patient outcomes.