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Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Screening for Proximal Lower Extremity Deep Venous Thrombosis
Published on: February 10, 2023
Bilateral nonthrombotic subclavian vein obstruction causing upper extremity venous claudication
Subhash Thakur1, Anthony J Comerota
1Jobst Vascular Center, The Toledo Hospital, Toledo, Ohio 43606, USA.
Journal of Vascular Surgery
|May 4, 2010
Summary
Venous claudication from thoracic outlet obstruction is usually due to thrombosis. This case highlights nonthrombotic subclavian vein obstruction as an uncommon cause, successfully treated with first rib resection.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Thoracic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Thoracic outlet obstruction commonly causes venous complications via axillosubclavian vein thrombosis.
- Symptoms include venous claudication, characterized by pain, swelling, and cyanosis.
Observation:
- A runner presented with bilateral arm pain during exertion, consistent with venous claudication.
- Initial evaluation suggested subclavian vein obstruction without evidence of thrombosis.
Findings:
- Clinical and hemodynamic assessments confirmed nonthrombotic subclavian vein obstruction.
- Surgical decompression via first rib resection effectively resolved the patient's symptoms.
Implications:
- This case underscores that nonthrombotic subclavian vein obstruction is a potential, albeit rare, cause of venous claudication.
- Thoracic outlet decompression is an effective treatment for this specific condition, even in athletes.
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