Estimation of ultrasound reference values for the lower limb peripheral nerves in adults A cross-sectional study

The objective of this study is to estimate the reference values for the lower limb peripheral nerves in adults. The demographics and physical characteristics of 69 adult healthy volunteers were evaluated and recorded. The estimated reference values and their correlations with the age, weight, height, body mass index (BMI) were evaluated. The cross sectional area reference values were obtained at 5 predetermined sites for 3 important lower limb peripheral nerves. Our CSA values correlated significantly with age, weight, and BMI. The normal reference values for each nerve were as follows: Tibial nerve at the popliteal fossa 19 mm(2) +/- 6.9, tibial nerve at the level of the medial malleolus 12.7 mm(2) +/- 4.5, common peroneal nerve at the popliteal fossa 9.5mm(2) +/- 4, common peroneal nerve fibular head 8.9 mm(2) +/- 3.2, sural nerve 3.5 mm(2) +/- 1.4. The reference values for the lower limb peripheral nerves were identified. These values could be used for future management of peripheral nerve disorders.