Outcome following surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome

Abstract

Introduction: the diagnosis of thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) relies heavily on subjective rather than objective assessment criteria. Subsequently, published results after surgical decompression vary considerably. This study aimed to use a symptom-based patient-directed questionnaire to assess the outcome after decompression for TOS.

Methods: sixty patients who underwent decompression procedures were identified from a prospectively maintained vascular database. Patient records were analysed for details regarding initial presentation, investigation, type of procedure used for decompression and management. Outcome questionnaires were sent to all identified patients to give a patient-based outcome measure.

Results: eighty-four per cent of patients responded. In 90% of these patients there was an improvement in symptoms post-surgery with a median follow up of 43 months. The results were not influenced by the procedure or approach used.

Conclusion: surgery remains an effective tool in the management of TOS. A simple patient-directed questionnaire as used in this study could assist in the standardisation of outcome assessment.