Unique Case of Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome with Arterial Compression in Patient with Bilateral Cervical Ribs and Osteochondroma of the Ribs

Vasc Endovascular Surg. 2022 May;56(4):439-443. doi: 10.1177/15385744211073115. Epub 2022 Feb 27.

Abstract

Background: Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome typically presents with paresthesia, pain, and impaired strength in the neck, shoulder, and arm, and is typically a diagnosis of exclusion. This condition is caused by compression of the brachial plexus, typically by a bony or soft tissue anomaly present congenitally and influenced by repetitive motion or significant trauma. Treatment typically involves removal of the first rib and anterior scalene to decompress the thoracic outlet and relieve stress to the brachial plexus if the patient has failed conservative treatment with physical therapy and lifestyle modifications. Case Presentation: We present a case of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome with arterial compression treated surgically via a transaxillary first rib and cervical rib resection in a patient with bilateral cervical ribs and osteochondromas of the ribs.

Keywords: neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome; thoracic outlet syndrome; vascular surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Bone Neoplasms* / complications
  • Bone Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging
  • Bone Neoplasms* / surgery
  • Cervical Rib* / diagnostic imaging
  • Cervical Rib* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Osteochondroma* / complications
  • Osteochondroma* / diagnostic imaging
  • Osteochondroma* / surgery
  • Ribs / diagnostic imaging
  • Ribs / surgery
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome* / diagnostic imaging
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome* / etiology
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome* / surgery
  • Treatment Outcome