title: Three-dimensional MR imaging of the brachial plexus.
abstract: Pathologic conditions of the brachial plexus often result in serious and disabling complications. With the increasing availability and use of new and powerful MRI sequences and coils, understanding and assessment of the complex anatomy and pathology of the brachial plexus have been greatly facilitated. These new technical developments have led to an improved assessment of brachial plexus lesions, thereby improving patient care. In this article we describe various MRI techniques for the evaluation of the brachial plexus obtained at 1.5 T and 3 T, and we explain differences and similarities between sequences and protocols performed on MRI equipment from different vendors. The main characteristics of pathologic conditions affecting the brachial plexus are discussed and illustrated, as well as their differential diagnoses, with an emphasis on key imaging findings and relevance for patient management. Pitfalls related to suboptimal technique and image interpretation are also addressed.
authors.affiliation: Division of Neuroradiology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Maria Isabel
authors.initials: MI
authors.lastname: Vargas
authors.affiliation: Division of Radiology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Joanna
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Gariani
authors.affiliation: Division of Radiology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Benedicte A
authors.initials: BA
authors.lastname: Delattre
authors.affiliation: Division of Radiology, Strasbourg University Hospitals, Strasbourg, France.
authors.forename: Jean-Louis
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Dietemann
authors.affiliation: Division of Neuroradiology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Karl
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Lovblad
authors.affiliation: Division of Radiology, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Minerva
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Becker
mesh_terms: D001917:Brachial Plexus / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000293:injuries / Q000473:pathology*; D020516:Brachial Plexus Neuropathies / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D009682:Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy; D010524:Peripheral Nervous System Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*