Carpal tunnel ultrasound: is the “safe zone” on the ulnar side of the median nerve really avascular?

ConclusionArterioles can be seen in the safe zone both superficial and deep to the flexor retinaculum. Deep to the retinaculum, they are mainly observed in the proximal aspect of the carpal tunnel and more frequently close to the median nerve.Key Points• Superb microvascular imaging (SMI) enables the visualization of arterioles within the “safe zone” of the carpal tunnel (visible both superficial and deep to the flexor retinaculum).• Arterioles were more frequently observed in the proximal aspect of the carpal tunnel.• Deep to the retinaculum, arterioles were more frequently seen in proximity to the median nerve.

Source: European Radiology - January 13, 2020 Category: Radiology Source Type: research