Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Surgeon, Los Angeles

Decompression Surgery for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)

Call (818) 900-64805 Request Appointment5

What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Sometimes referred to as “TOS”, thoracic outlet syndrome is an umbrella term that is used to describe a group of disorders that come from compression or irritation of the nerves and/or blood vessels in the lower neck and upper chest area. This compression causes pain in the arm, shoulder, and neck. Thus, decompression surgery is required.

There are 3 classifications of thoracic outlet syndrome:

Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (most common)
Venous thoracic outlet syndrome
Arterial thoracic outlet syndrome

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Q & A

young man holding his shoulder exhibiting signs of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Los Angeles

Arm, neck or should pain can be signs of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS).

What are the risk factors of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Female
Age 20-50
Current/ former athlete
Anatomical defect
Poor posture
Trauma
Pregnancy
Sleep disorders
Tumor
Weightlifting

What are the symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome depend on the type of TOS syndrome you have. It is possible to have a combination of the different types of thoracic outlet syndrome, so proper diagnosis is important.

The following are the most common symptoms of all 3 types of thoracic outlet syndrome:

Numbness or tingling in arm or fingers
Arm pain and swelling
Discoloration of the hand (blue color)
Weak grip
Arm fatigue
Arm pain, neck pain, or shoulder needing pain management
Cold fingers, hands, or arms from poor circulation

Treatment Options for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

If thoracic outlet syndrome is left untreated you could be at risk for permanent arm pain and/or swelling, gangrene, pulmonary embolism, or permanent nerve damage. The goal of treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome is to manage pain through decompression surgery.

Early diagnosis can help improve treatment outcomes. Most patients with thoracic outlet syndrome are treated with physical therapy or medical management with pain medications, thrombolytics, or anticoagulants. About 10-20% of patients with thoracic outlet syndrome will need surgical intervention.

To schedule an evaluation with Dr. Eghbalieh and Dr. Abi-Chaker at Southern California Multi-Specialty Center, call 818-900-6480.

Our Vascular & Endovascular Surgeons

It's important to remember not all physicians are trained in advanced vascular and endovascular surgery. It’s a good practice to get multiple opinions and do research on the surgery and the physician.