MRI-based evaluation system accurately quantifies paraspinal muscle atrophy and nerve root injury severity
A noninvasive MRI technique that measures volumetric changes in paraspinal muscles could transform how doctors assess nerve damage in the cervical spine, which helps guide more precise treatment decisions and potentially speed recovery for patients suffering from either sudden trauma or gradual degeneration.
Cervical radiculopathy, whether from degenerative spinal disease or traumatic brachial plexus injury caused by traffic accidents, often limits movement in both young adults and seniors. The condition can severely affect quality of life and place economic and emotional strain on patients as well as their families. Clinically, determining whether a nerve root is normal, partially or completely avulsed by nonquantified radiological evaluation has been challenging, often forcing surgeons to revise plans during surgery.