Utilization, detection rate, and pathologies on lumbosacral plexus MRI: a 25-year institutional experience.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Lumbosacral plexus magnetic resonance imaging is infrequently performed, and there is often insufficient exposure for radiologists to confidently recognize pathologies and high-yield imaging trends. Lumbosacral plexopathies frequently present with vague, overlapping, or confounding clinical features that mimic lumbar radiculopathy. This study aimed to describe the frequency and spectrum of plexus-specific pathologies identified on lumbosacral plexus MRI over a 25-year period and to evaluate clinical indications associated with abnormal imaging findings.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

This retrospective study reviewed 25 years (2000-2024) of lumbosacral plexus MRI exams performed at a Northeast tertiary referral center. Patient demographics, clinical indications, and reported imaging findings were reviewed, and lumbosacral pathologies were categorized based on etiology. Cases with only lumbar spondylosis were classified as no plexus abnormality to ensure detection rates reflect plexus-specific pathology. Descriptive statistics, chi-square analysis, and univariable and multivariable logistic regression were performed to evaluate factors associated with abnormal MRI findings.

RESULTS

In 25 years a total of n = 233 lumbosacral plexus MRI exams were performed (representing 0.024 % of all MRIs, 233/968,077). Mean patient age was 52.7 years (SD = 18.4), 57 % of patients were female, 43 % were male. Radiographic abnormalities were identified in 27.9 % (n = 67) of cases. The most frequent pathologies included nerve sheath tumors (n = 12, 5.2 %), other primary neoplasia or metastases (n = 15, 6.4 %), and non-neoplastic compressive neuropathies (n = 11, 4.6 %). Less common notable pathologies included trauma sequelae (n = 5, 2.1 %) and infectious/inflammatory etiologies (n = 6, 2.6 %). The analysis revealed no significant demographic or temporal predictors of abnormal findings, though motor deficits, neuropathy, and trauma were significantly associated with abnormal findings (all, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Lumbosacral plexus MRI although an infrequently requested study may reveal abnormal radiologic features in a high percentage of cases. Recognizing lumbosacral plexus MRI trends in yield and clinically relevant pathologies can enhance interpretation and utilization of this specialized examination.