Generality
Thoracic outlet syndrome, or thoracic egress syndrome, is a set of symptoms and signs caused by compression of blood vessels or nerves passing through the thoracic outlet.
The causes of this painful syndrome are different. At its origin, in fact, there may be congenital anatomical defects, trauma, repetitive activities, incorrect posture, etc.
Symptoms vary depending on whether the compression affects nerves or blood vessels. Generally, however, pain is a symptom common to both situations.
Diagnosing the problem is complex, because each individual represents a case in itself.
First instance therapy is conservative. Surgery, in fact, is reserved for the most serious cases.
