Early results of interventions in patients with venous thoracic outlet syndrome.

Abstract

Background: To determine the freedom from major complications and the efficacy, in the form of technical and clinical success, of different interventions in venous thoracic outlet syndrome (VTOS).

Methods: Data from 3 centers regarding patients aged between (18 and 60 years) with symptoms and signs of upper limb venous outflow obstruction was collected and analyzed to monitor outcome of different interventions.

Results: 23 patients (16 males) with mean age of 35 ± 9.33 years (range 23-54 years) were recruited. 17.4% of the patients were thrombotic, 56.5% were nonthrombotic, and 26.1% were postthrombotic. 73.9% had right side presentation with pain and swelling. Two techniques of thrombus removal, 2 techniques for first rib resection, and venoplasty were all used with 100% technical, 87% over all clinical success, and no major perioperative complications. The mean follow-up duration was 9.9 months.

Conclusions: Interventions in VTOS are both safe and effective in the short- and mid-term.