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Updated: Jun 22, 2026
06:57
Transaxillary First Rib Resection for Treatment of the Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Published on: September 13, 2020
Thoracic outlet syndrome associated with a large cervical rib
Randall R De Martino1, David H Stone, Adam W Beck
1Department of Surgery, Section of Vascular Surgery, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756, USA. randall.r.de.martino@hitchcock.org
Vascular and Endovascular Surgery
|June 27, 2009
Summary
A large cervical rib can cause thoracic outlet syndrome by affecting anatomy. Management involves accurate diagnosis and multidisciplinary treatment, including physical therapy, nerve blocks, and surgery when necessary.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Neurology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a condition characterized by compression of neurovascular structures in the thoracic outlet.
- Cervical ribs are an uncommon congenital anomaly that can predispose individuals to TOS.
Observation:
- This case highlights a large cervical rib as the anatomical cause of TOS.
- The physical presence of the cervical rib directly impacts the space available for neurovascular structures.
Findings:
- The study demonstrates the direct correlation between cervical rib size and its role as an etiological factor in TOS.
- Diagnostic acumen is crucial for identifying the anatomical basis of TOS.
Implications:
- Effective management of TOS requires a multidisciplinary approach.
- Treatment options range from conservative measures like physical therapy and scalene muscle blockade to surgical decompression for severe cases.
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