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Have you ever experienced pain or pins and needles in your arm/hand, one hand colder than the other, or dizziness? All those things might be related to thoracic outlet syndrome. This condition is caused when the large blood vessels and nerves to the arm and hand are compressed between the collarbone and first rib.
These symptoms often resolve with rest and anti-inflammatory medication, but it is sometimes necessary to intervene surgically.
This could be due to compression of the blood vessels and reduced blood flow.
In most cases, thoracic outlet syndrome does not require surgery or lead to serious complications. However, left untreated, it can lead to nerve damage. Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome can gradually cause muscle deterioration at the base of the thumb.
Symptoms generally range from numbness, weakness or total dysfunction in the arms, to chest pain. However, migraines and dizziness have also been reported.
As we have to make a larger space around the blood vessels and nerves, we need to remove a bony structure and some muscles. Removing the collarbone would adversely affect arm movement, and so we remove the first rib. The procedure can be done through an incision below the armpit or below the collarbone and is usually well tolerated. Mr Scarci has performed many of these procedures and will advise you on the best technique in your specific circumstances.
A highly respected consultant thoracic surgeon based in London
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