Brachial plexopathy: a review of traumatic and nontraumatic causes

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2014 Jan;202(1):W67-75. doi: 10.2214/AJR.12.9554.

Abstract

Objective: This article reviews brachial plexus anatomy in the context of key landmarks, illustrates common findings of traumatic and nontraumatic causes of brachial plexopathies, describes symptoms associated with these maladies, and explains how proper diagnosis impacts clinical decisions.

Conclusion: Knowledge of brachial plexus anatomy and of the imaging sequelae of traumatic and nontraumatic plexopathies enables the radiologist to more easily identify these afflictions, thereby facilitating a multidisciplinary treatment plan and improving patient outcome.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brachial Plexus / anatomy & histology
  • Brachial Plexus / injuries
  • Brachial Plexus Neuropathies / diagnosis*
  • Brachial Plexus Neuropathies / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*