Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Procedure
What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Procedure?
This is a special MRI procedure that Health Diagnostics offers to evaluate patients that exhibit clinical symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS).
What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)?
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is a compression or entrapment of the major nerves, arteries and veins that pass from the neck and chest to each upper extremity. TOS frequently results from occupational overuse of computers, or from neck injuries suffered in motor vehicle accidents, and is rapidly becoming more recognized by the medical community. Clinical diagnosis of TOS is complex and challenging, but appropriate awareness, prompt diagnosis and appropriate directed therapy is vitally important, as TOS patients may rapidly progress to severe pain, long-term disability and the inability to perform activities of daily living. When diagnosis is delayed or absent, TOS may lead to stroke or to the loss of the intrinsic muscles of the hands, both of which are potentially devastating. TOS should be considered in all patients who present with neck and arm pain.
Although a variety of imaging modalities have been utilized previously to evaluate patients with TOS, none was able to provide a reliable, sensitive and accurate evaluation of the anatomy and pathology of the thoracic outlet. This pathology most frequently involves the soft tissue structures of the thoracic outlet. NeoVista incorporates the excellent soft tissue detail of MRI to evaluate the vital muscles and soft tissues of the thoracic outlet, MR neurograms to evaluate the brachial plexus, and MRA to evaluate the vital arteries and veins. This comprehensive evaluation is reviewed and interpreted by a radiologist with world-leading experience in TOS imaging.
What causes Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)?
Any condition that results in enlargement or movement of the tissues of or near the thoracic outlet can cause the Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Patients that develop neck, arm, and shoulder pain as a result of motor vehicle accidents or occupations that require extensive computer use are prime candidates for a diagnosis of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Additional causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome include muscle enlargement (from weight lifting, for example), a congenital abnormality (such as an extra rib from the neck at birth), disease (such as a tumor), obesity, and poor posture. Often no specific cause is found.
What are the symptoms?
They vary, depending on which nerves or blood vessels are being compressed. Typical symptoms include weakness, pain, “pins and needles” and coolness of the arms or hands; aching pain and/or swelling in the neck, shoulder, arm, or hand; and reduced range of motion of the shoulder or neck. There may be a depression in the shoulder or a swelling or discoloration in the arm.
How is it diagnosed?
For the evaluation of TOS, Health Diagnostics, in collaboration with consulting radiologist, Dr. Scott Werden, offers a special procedure called NeoVista, a definitive and unique evaluation of patients with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome.
NeoVista is a complex, patent-pending set of MRI protocols developed by Dr. Scott Werden. Having conducted hundreds of TOS studies, Dr. Werden has created one of the largest TOS patient case history databases. Dr. Werden is easily accessible for consultations and questions from physicians and patients.
Other diagnostic testing may include X-rays, nerve conduction velocity tests, or ultrasound. Special blood circulation tests and electrodiagnostic testing may be helpful.
What is the treatment?
Treatment for TOS is conservative, and usually does not involve surgery. Physical therapy and postural exercises can be helpful. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, can ease the pain. For overweight patients, a weight loss program may be recommended.
Which Health Diagnostic facilities offer the special Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Procedure?
