

This can create blood clots that may be life-threatening if they break loose and make their way to the lungs. The compression of axillary and/or subclavian veins under the collarbone, the ones that carry blood away from the arm, is the cause of venous thoracic outlet syndrome. This type of TOS can happen abruptly and requires immediate medical attention. Surgical treatment is a common treatment option for this type of TOS. It can cause an aneurysm or blood clot that could be life-threatening. The reduction is often the result of a congenital abnormality- one present at birth- that reduces the size of the thoracic outlet.Īrterial is the least common type, affecting only 1% of TOS patients, but the most serious. Arterial TOSĪrterial thoracic outlet syndrome is caused by a compression of the axillary artery and/or subclavian artery, the main vessels that carry blood to the arm. Physical examinations, nerve conduction studies, and other additional tests can pinpoint the type, like a CT scan, X-ray, or MRI. Types of Thoracic Outlet Syndromeĭiagnosing TOS is not always easy and may require the intervention of a neurologist, vascular or thoracic specialist. Problems in this area can result in big-time pain and even life-threatening vascular issues if not treated promptly. When these sensitive fibers become compressed or irritated, it can result in a group of rare disorders called thoracic outlet syndrome. Several nerves and blood vessels run through this area on their way to service the arm and hand. It spans from the base of your neck to your shoulder joint in the upper chest. The thoracic outlet is a diamond-shaped space located behind the clavicle (collarbone) and on top of the first rib. 8 Ulnar Nerve Gliding Stretches What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
