To resect or avulse first rib in management of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome: a randomized controlled trial

Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (nTOS) is commonly treated with first-rib resection, a procedure linked to postoperative complications, but its necessity remains debated among experts, highlighting the need for further research. This randomized controlled trial aims to compare conventional first-rib resection with the avulsion method to identify the most effective surgical approach.

This single-center, randomized, group-sequential trial compared two surgical approaches for treating nTOS. Participants were randomly assigned to undergo first-rib resection (Group A) or first-rib avulsion (Group B), with both groups blinded to treatment allocation. The University of Sulaimani granted ethical approval and obtained written informed consent. Inclusion criteria included nTOS patients requiring surgery, excluding those with other TOS types, cervical ribs, clavicular fractures, or other complications. Outcome measures included pain scores, numbness, and patient satisfaction at multiple time points. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS and Microsoft Excel.

A total of 48 female patients were enrolled (23 in Group A, 25 in Group B). The mean age was 32.58 ± 7.23 years, and the average operation duration was 48.27 ± 13.95 min. Group B had significantly longer ribs (P < 0.001). Both groups showed significant pain and numbness reduction, with no significant differences in outcomes (P = 0.647, P = 0.839). At 6 months, 92.0% of Group B and 87.0% of Group A patients recommended the surgery.

Although statistically not significant, first rib avulsion may offer a viable alternative to resection for nTOS, providing comparable pain relief and functional recovery with reduced invasiveness.