Open AccessThoracic Outlet Syndrome Current Concepts of Treatment
Author(s) -
Thomas R. Kelly
Publication year - 1979
Publication title -
annals of surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 4.153
H-Index - 309
eISSN - 1528-1140
pISSN - 0003-4932
DOI - 10.1097/00000658-197911000-00017
Subject(s) - medicine , thoracic outlet syndrome , cervical rib , thoracic outlet , differential diagnosis , surgery , orthopedic surgery , physical examination , rib cage , electromyography , radiology , physical therapy , physical medicine and rehabilitation , pathology , anatomy
This current concept of treatment of the Thoracic Outlet Syndrome based on a personal experience with 304 patients, resulted in complete (85%) or partial (7%) relief of symptoms in 92% of operated patients. The diagnosis centers upon a thorough history and the exclusion of other causes of arm and shoulder pain utilizing a strict flow pattern of differential diagnosis. Angiography and electromyography are of limited value and are only performed in selected cases. Operation should be reserved for the thoroughly evaluated patient who continues to have pain despite adequate conservative therapy. Transaxillary removal of the first rib, fibromuscular bands and cervical rib, when present, is the operation of choice.