Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

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  • Subclavian Artery, Subclavian Vein and/or Brachial plexus compressed between clavicle and 1st rib or cervical rib if present
  • Both neurological and arterial symptoms may appear

Causes

  • Healed Fracture
  • Excess muscle development
  • Cervical rib or fibrous band

Symptoms

  • Upper limb ‘claudication’ – especially when arms raised above head
  • Sensory loss in T1 nerve root distribution
  • Post-stenotic dilatation may lead to thrombus/emboli formation

Diagnosis

  • ↓ BP in arm, which varies with arm posture
  • Arteriography

Treatment

  • By excision of 1st or cervical rib
  • Resection of any aneurysm and replacement with a graft
 

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