The brachial plexus is a complex network of nerves formed by the ventral rami of spinal nerves C5 through T1 that weaves through the neck and shoulder region to supply motor and sensory function to the entire upper extremity. In musculoskeletal and interventional ultrasound, the brachial plexus can be visualized as a cluster of hypoechoic, round nerve fascicles between the scalene muscles in the neck and into the axilla. Ultrasound-guided brachial plexus nerve blocks are commonly performed for surgical anesthesia of the arm and hand. Additionally, ultrasound can help evaluate for traumatic injuries, tumors, or compression affecting the brachial plexus nerves.
Sonography Term