Abstract
Objective:
The aim of this study was to investigate sonographic measurements of the vagus nerve in a healthy sample and determining reference values at four cross-sectional area (CSA) landmarks. In addition, a further assessment was made of the relationships between demographic and anthropometric variables, compared to the vagus nerve measurements.
Materials and Methods:
The sample comprised 59 healthy individuals (27 men and 32 women). An ultrasound equipment system and a 12L-RS linear transducer were used for the evaluation. The vagus nerve was visualized at two key anatomical sites: prior to the bifurcation point of the common carotid artery (e.g., proximal landmark) and at the inferior border of the thyroid gland (e.g., distal landmark). Bilateral measurements of both anterior-posterior and transverse diameters at these landmarks were collected, to determine the CSA values.
Results:
Gender-specific variations were observed, with men exhibiting significantly larger proximal and distal nerve CSA values on the right side compared to women. In addition, in this cohort, a positive correlation was noted comparing the body mass index (BMI) with the proximal left and right nerve CSAs. Furthermore, neck circumference was found to be significantly positively associated with proximal left, proximal right, and distal right nerve CSAs, within this cohort.
Conclusion:
The results of this cohort study help to build reference values for the vagus nerve, at essential anatomical sites, and highlight potential gender-specific variations.
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