Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Overview

Thoracic outlet syndrome is caused by compressed nerves and blood vessels in the space under your collarbone and above your first rib (thoracic outlet). The compression may cause pain in your shoulder or neck and numbness in your arm or hand. You may have one or more of the three types of thoracic outlet syndrome:

• Neurologic. Neurologic thoracic outlet syndrome occurs when nerves (brachial plexus) in your thoracic outlet become compressed.
• Venous. Venous thoracic outlet syndrome occurs when one or more of the veins below the collarbone are compressed, and can lead to blood clots in the veins.
• Arterial. Arterial thoracic outlet syndrome results from compression of the large artery under the collarbone. This compression can lead to blood clots and narrowing or enlargement (aneurysm) of the artery.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic doctors offer several treatment options for thoracic outlet syndrome. Doctors who specialize in surgery of the blood vessels (vascular surgery), vascular medicine, chest surgery (thoracic surgery), neurology, radiology, orthopedic surgery and physical medicine and rehabilitation will work with you to diagnose and treat thoracic outlet syndrome. This collaboration ensures that you receive the most appropriate treatment.