Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Question 1

Narrowing or compression of the thoracic outlet can lead to what?

Answer 1

Symptoms known as the thoracic syndrome

Question 2

What does the thoracic syndrome outlet involve?

Answer 2

Irritation or compression of the neurovascular bundles normally associated with the 1st rib. Most commonly affects the subclavian artery, vein and/or lower trunk of brachial plexus

Question 3

What can narrowing and compression at the outlet be caused by?

Answer 3

• Cervical ribs/fibrous bands associated with partial cervical ribs
• Excessive callus formation following a clavical fracture
• Malignancy of lung apex
• Inflammatory disease including rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyaldia
• Poor posture of disorders such as kyphosis or scoliosis.

Question 4

What are cervical ribs?

Answer 4

Additional, anomalous ribs that can be unilateral or bilateral, may be present but are asymptomatic

Question 5

Where do cervical ribs articulate?

Answer 5

Posteriorly with vertebra C7

Question 6

The interval between trauma and symptoms may occur when? and what symptoms may be

Answer 6

Hours but could even be weeks later. There may be pain, numbness/tingling of upper limb. Autonomic features such as cold hands, swelling or blanching can occur.

Question 7

With what bones does the first rib articulate with?

Answer 7

Posteriorly - First thoracic vertebrate

Anteriorly - sternum