Thoracic outlet syndrome (patient information)
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# Overview
Thoracic outlet syndrome is a combination of pain in the neck and  shoulder, numbness  and tingling  of the fingers, and a weak grip. The thoracic outlet is the area  between the rib cage and collar bone.

# What are the symptoms of Thoracic outlet syndrome?
Symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome may include:
- Pain, numbness, and tingling in the last three fingers and inner  forearm
- Pain and tingling in the neck and shoulders (carrying something  heavy may make the pain worse)
- Signs of poor circulation in the hand or forearm
- Weakness of the muscles in the hand

# What causes Thoracic outlet syndrome?
Thoracic outlet syndrome is a rare condition.
Blood vessels and nerves coming from the spine or major blood vessels  of the body pass through a narrow space near the shoulder and armpit on  their way to the arms. As they pass by or through the collarbone  (clavicle) and upper ribs, they may not have enough space. Pressure (compression) on these blood vessels or nerves can cause symptoms in the arms or hands. Problems with the nerves account for almost all cases of  thoracic outlet syndrome.
Compression can be caused by an extra cervical rib (above the first  rib) or an abnormal tight fibrous band connecting the spinal vertebra to  the rib. Patients often have a history of injury to the area or overuse  of the shoulder.

# Who is at highest risk?
People with long necks and droopy shoulders may be more likely to  develop  this condition  because of extra pressure on their nerves and  blood vessels.

# Diagnosis
When you lift something, the arm may appear pale due to pressure on  the blood vessels. Rarely, the arm may be smaller on the side of the  symptoms. This is often present since birth (a congenital anomaly).
The diagnosis is typically made after the doctor takes a careful  history and performs a physical examination. Sometimes tests are done to  confirm the diagnosis, including the following:
- Electromyography(EMG)
- MRI
- Nerve conduction velocity study
- X-ray
Tests should also be performed to make sure there are no other  problems, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or a damaged nerve due to problems in the cervical  (neck) spine.

# Treatment options
Physical therapy helps strengthen the shoulder muscles, improve range  of motion, and promote better posture. Treatment may also include pain  medication.
Surgery may be recommended if physical therapy and changes in  activity do not improve your symptoms. Types of procedures that might be  performed include:
- An extra rib is removed and certain muscles are cut.
- A section of the first rib is removed to release pressure in the  area.
- Bypass surgery is done to reroute blood around the compression or remove the  area that is causing the symptoms.
Your doctor may also suggest other alternatives, including angioplasty.

# Where to find medical care for Thoracic outlet syndrome?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Thoracic outlet syndrome

# What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Having the fibrous band removed may eliminate symptoms if patients are  selected carefully. Surgery can be successful in 50% to 80% of patients.  Conservative approaches using physical therapy are helpful for many  patients.

# Possible complications
Complications can occur with any surgery and relate to the type of  procedure and anesthesia  used.
Damage to nerves or blood vessels may occur during surgery. This  could lead to weakness of the arm muscles, or weakness of the muscles  that help control the diaphragm when you breathe.

# Sources
Cateogry:Cardiology patient information