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Updated: May 2, 2026

Transaxillary First Rib Resection for Treatment of the Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Published on: September 13, 2020
Neurologic thoracic outlet syndrome: summarizing a complex history and evolution
Chaney Stewman1, Peter C Vitanzo, Marc I Harwood
11Department of Family and Community Medicine, Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA; 2Department of Family and Community Medicine, Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University and Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA; and 3Department of Family and Community Medicine, Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University and Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, PA.
Abstract:
Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a blanket term encapsulating many different clinical entities. Neurologic or neurogenic TOS (NTOS) is its main contributor, but it remains a complicated and sometimes controversial entity. NTOS incorporates numerous types, etiologies, clinical presentations, diagnostic findings, and therapeutic modalities. This article reviews the spectrum of disease within the thoracic outlet that affects the brachial plexus, with a special emphasis on the commonly afflicted sports medicine patient.
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