[Thoracobrachial outlet syndrome. Apropos of 21 surgical cases of a neurological form]

Abstract

The authors review the literature in reference to 21 cases of thoracic outlet syndrome, essentially of neurological nature. The diagnostic means are essentially clinical with various techniques demonstrating vascular and neurological signs. They stress the advantages of electromyography in normal position or in abduction, showing in half of the cases, positive signs. Finally, X-ray examination demonstrates a congenital bony abnormality. In severe forms resisting to neurological treatment, the treatment advocated is surgery. The approach is high supra clavicular, and the brachial plexus is freed, on request, from the bony, musculotendinous and/or fibrous elements compressing it. Long-term results are usually good and the authors have noticed the correlation between the immediate post-operative disappearance of the pain and the final result.