Vascular Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Vascular thoracic outlet syndrome generally affects young, active, otherwise healthy patients. The diagnosis is suspected by clinical presentation, and can be confirmed with angiography or venography. Conservative management has been associated with significant morbidity and long-term residual disability. We have used a multimodal treatment protocol that includes thrombolysis, anticoagulation, surgical decompression, and interventional procedures. Catheter-directed recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator and intravenous heparin infusion are instituted at the time of diagnosis to promote recanalization and prevent propagation of thrombus. Surgical decompression of the thoracic outlet can be readily achieved by first rib resection during the same hospitalization. Postoperative venograms are obtained in all patients. Residual stenoses can be managed with angioplasty alone in some patients but more commonly require stent placement. We believe thrombolysis, anticoagulation, surgical decompression, and percutaneous interventions act synergistically to improve results of therapy in patients with vascular thoracic outlet syndrome.