High-resolution mapping of hand innervation: novel approaches at 7T MRI

Motivation: Exploit the high resolution provided by the 7T MRI technology to detect fine structures in the hand. Goal(s): To create an atlas of hand structures, with a specific focus on nerves and Pacinian corpuscles. This atlas is intended to serve both diagnostic purposes and to support reconstructive surgical procedures. Approach: An ethics committee was obtained to scan volunteers using 7T MRI. Post-processing was carried out to delineate the nerve fiber network and mechanoreceptors. Results: We successfully reconstruct and describe the anatomy of all nerve fibers from the carpus to the digital nerve division, as well as the Pacinian corpuscles, for three healthy volunteers. Impact: A visual interactive “Hand Nerves Atlas” matching morphology and fiber tracking of hand nerves on high-field will be delivered to the scientific community for fundamental research, to clinicians for microscopic surgery of nerves, and for educational purposes in medical schools.