High-Resolution Ultrasound of Schwannomas of the Limbs: Analysis of 72 Cases

Schwannomas are common benign tumors that develop in peripheral nerves. High-resolution ultrasound (HRUS) is an effective imaging modality in clinics. The aim of this study was to define the value of HRUS in diagnosing schwannomas that originate from different nerves in limbs. We reviewed the ultrasound and surgical records of 72 pathologically confirmed schwannomas in the limbs of 60 patients. Results revealed that 44 (61.1%) of 72 cases, 44 (75.9%) of 58 cases and 0 (0%) of 14 cases received an overall correct pre-operative diagnosis, a correct pre-operative diagnosis in nerve trunks and a correct pre-operative diagnosis in small branches, respectively. Identification of the nerve of origin of schwannomas through HRUS likely increased confidence in diagnosing these benign tumors.