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Thoracic outlet syndrome

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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The subclavian artery and brachial plexus emerge through a narrow space between the clavicle and the first rib to enter the axilla. Compression of either the artery, or the eighth cervical and/or first thoracic nerve in this space produces a clinical picture referred to as the thoracic outlet syndrome. This is a misnomer as the pathology lies around the anatomical thoracic inlet. Many deformities and lesions are responsible.

Further investigation aims to exclude other causes of similar symptoms such as a cervical disc pathology or an atypical presentation of the carpal tunnel syndrome.

The syndrome is more common in women.


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