Thoracic outlet: anatomic correlation with MR imaging

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2000 Aug;175(2):417-22. doi: 10.2214/ajr.175.2.1750417.

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this report is to describe the normal MR anatomy of the thoracic outlet and its modification after postural maneuvers using an anatomic-MR imaging correlation.

Conclusion: MR imaging appears to be a useful technique to study the thoracic outlet and its contents because of its excellent soft-tissue depiction and its multiplanar capabilities. T1-weighted images obtained in the sagittal plane clearly depicted the different compartments of the cervicothoracic-brachial junction. Hyperabduction maneuvers may have potential applications in the assessment of the thoracic outlet syndrome by showing the location of compression.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Axillary Artery / anatomy & histology*
  • Axillary Vein / anatomy & histology*
  • Brachial Plexus / anatomy & histology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Male
  • Subclavian Artery / anatomy & histology*
  • Subclavian Vein / anatomy & histology*
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome