Value of Neuromuscular Ultrasound in Relation to Clinical and Electrophysiological Testing in Diagnosis of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Abstract

T horacic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is one of several conditions manifested by signs and symptoms attributable to compression or entrapment of vessels or nerves at the level of the thoracic outlet. The designation “syndrome” implies the presence of disability that is significant to the patient. Compression of neurovascular structures throughout the thoracic outlet may be caused by bony structures such as cervical rib or elongated C7 transverse process, soft tissue structures such as anomalous fibrous muscular bands, hypertrophic muscles in athletes and weight lifters, Space-occupying lesions (e.g., tumors, cysts) and inflammatory processes, Trauma or mechanical stress to the neck, shoulders, or upper extremities or combination of previous factors.