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Duplex Ultrasound in the Evaluation of Venous and Arterial Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
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  • Jian Hu,
  • Tarun Tewatia,
  • Kartikeya Kashyap,
  • John Wilson,
  • Victor Farah,
  • Todd Franco,
  • Vinh Nguyen
Jian Hu
Allegheny Health Network

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Tarun Tewatia
Allegheny Health Network
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Kartikeya Kashyap
Allegheny Health Network
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John Wilson
Allegheny Health Network
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Victor Farah
Allegheny Health Network
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Todd Franco
Allegheny Health Network
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Vinh Nguyen
Allegheny Health Network
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Abstract

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is caused by neurovascular bundle compression in the thoracic outlet space. Three pertinent structures may be compressed: brachial plexus, subclavian artery, and subclavian vein. Clinical presentation may be variable depending on the anatomical structure involved. We report a 36-year-old man with chronic recurrent pressure-quality left chest discomfort. Comprehensive cardiac investigations were nonrevealing. A venous and arterial duplex ultimately revealed dynamic venous and arterial compression. Our paper is to illustrate the sonographic approach to evaluate vascular compression in the thoracic outlet. We review the mechanisms of compression, and examination maneuvers to facilitate a Doppler-based diagnosis.
Mar 2021Published in JRSM Open volume 12 issue 3 on pages 205427042098310. 10.1177/2054270420983101