[The thoracic outlet syndrome -- diagnostic tips, operative technique and results]

Experiences with more than 300 operations for TOS with a follow-up of at least one year are summarized. Detailed descriptions of the technique of operation with the supraclavicular approach and results of two groups of patients (106 and 66) are given: the first group was treated with supraclavicular or transaxillary approach and with scalenotomy combined with the resection of the first rib or without rib resection. The second group was operated by the supraclavicular approach without exception and always with the resection of the first rib. The results of the second group are better.