Shear Wave Elastography of the Sural Nerve in Healthy Subjects: A Pilot Study

Abstract

The goal of this study is to evaluate the potential ability of shear wave elastography (SWE) to evaluate the sural nerve (SN) in healthy subjects. Methods and Results: Thirty-six SNs were evaluated in 18 healthy adult subjects. Subjects were examined in the prone position with the ankle in the neutral position, and the knees fully extended; a linear transducer was used [L18-4, MHZ] (EPIQ Elite SW 5.0.1, Philips). Nerve conduction studies were performed with the Nihon-Cohden Neuropack device. The mean cross sectional area of the SN at both sides was 4.03±1.16mm2. The mean shear elastic modulus of the right SN in the SA was 24.92±6.08 kPa, while in the LA it was 26.45±5.66 kPa. The mean shear elastic modulus of the left SN in the SA was 24.1±4.1 kPa [range 19-33.13], while in the long axis it was 23.9±4.9 kPa [range 16.4-30.77]. The cross sectional area of the SN correlated positively with height (P<0.05), weight (P<0.001), and body mass index (P<0.01). Conclusion: SWE could play a complementary role in future evaluation of SN pathologies.