Thoracic-outlet Syndrome in Arizona
At Western Vascular, our team of highly skilled vascular specialists is dedicated to diagnosing and treating thoracic outlet syndrome with the utmost precision and care. We utilize state-of-the-art diagnostic techniques and advanced treatment options to provide tailored solutions for each patient.
Whether your TOS is caused by anatomical abnormalities, trauma, repetitive stress, or other factors, we are committed to developing a personalized treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Our compassionate team will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that you receive the highest standard of care. Call one of our vascular clinics to schedule an appointment today!
What Are the Symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
Patients may feel pain, numbness, and tingling in their neck, arm, or hand. Generally, the pain gets worse with repeated overhead motion and lifting your arms. Additional symptoms include swelling, blue discoloration, fatigue, and sores that do not heal well.
What Are the Causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
Causes of TOS are not known, but there are several risk factors that are listed that can increase the chances of developing this condition:
- Sleep Disorder
- Tumors or large lymph nodes in the upper chest or underarm area
- Stress or depression
- Participating in sports that involve repetitive arm or shoulder movement, such as baseball, swimming, golfing, volleyball and others
- Repetitive injuries from carrying heavy shoulder loads
How Is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Diagnosed?
Your Vascular Surgeon will perform a thorough history and physical examination as well as performing several tests including a CT scan, MRI scan, Arteriography or venogram, stress maneuver testing, or an anesthetic block injection to temporarily improve symptoms.
How Is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Treated?
The treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. The goal of treatment is to relieve the compression of the nerves or blood vessels in the thoracic outlet and alleviate the associated symptoms. Here are some common treatment approaches:
- Physical Therapy
- Botulinum toxin injections are sometimes effective when physical therapy doesn’t completely relieve symptoms.
- Surgery can involve cutting small muscles of the neck (anterior and middle scalene) and removing the cervical or first rib.
Nerve Related Therapy
Nerve related therapy involves physical therapy and injections for muscle relief to resolve symptoms. When symptoms persist a thoracic outlet decompression surgery.
Artery Related Therapy
Thoracic outlet decompression surgery is suggested depending on the damage to the artery if the damage is too great then an arterial bypass may be considered as part of this surgery.
Vein Related Therapy
Thoracic outlet decompression surgery and thrombolytic therapy. Patients may also benefit from angioplasty, bypass surgery, or vein reconstruction.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have been experiencing symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome it is important that you schedule an appointment with one of our highly-trained vascular surgeons in Arizona. They will diagnose your symptoms and discover the best treatment option for you. For more information about our Vascular Surgery Center, please call (480) 668-5000 to schedule your appointment today.