Evaluation of brachial plexus with MR echo planar imaging: Initial experience

Objective: To determine the optimal sequences and scan parameters of Brachial Plexus MRI. Methods: Eighteen volunteers were underwent conventional MRI and echo planar imaging scanning. The images acquired were compared with the standard anatomical pictures. Results: Ventral rami, ganglion, trunks, cords and some peripheral nerves of brachial plexus were demonstrated very well by echo planar imaging with the post-processing techniques such as MIP, thin slice MIP and MPR. In 18/18 cases the postganglions on both sides and 17/18 cases the preganglions of brachial plexus on both sides could be visualized in EPI pre-processed and post-processed images. Conclusion: Echo planar imaging is an effective technique of accurately displaying brachial plexus and adjacent structures. It has potential value in the diagnosis and treatment of brachial plexus diseases. It is also a potential technique to demonstrate other peripheral nerves accurately.