WS7.9. Imaging as a natural complementary test in neuromuscular medicine

Advances in the understanding of peripheral nerve disorders occur when new techniques allow a better insight into the underlying pathophysiology. Functional tests have to date led the way in furthering our understanding of peripheral nerve disorders. EMG was rapidly followed by nerve conduction studies and further technical refinements enabled the use of evoked potentials, intraneural microneurography and threshold tracking. Similar to what happened in the exploration of the central nervous system, there was a gap in the field of Neuromuscular medicine until clinically useful imaging of the peripheral nerves emerged. Because of its ready availability, excellent resolution and relative low cost, peripheral nerve Ultrasound has rapidly become part of clinical routine. A particular domain of peripheral nerve MRI scanning is the depiction of neural structure lying deep and behind bone such as the lumbosacral plexus. In this review, we will be looking at how imaging techniques compliments functional tests and provides a comprehensive evaluation of the peripheral nervous system.