Temple Faculty Physicians is experiencing technical issues with phone lines. If you are experiencing an emergency, please visit your nearest emergency room. If you would like to schedule an appointment with your provider or have general questions or requests, please contact us by using myTempleHealth.

myTempleHealth
800-TEMPLE-MED Schedule Appointment
SEARCH TEMPLE HEALTH
Conditions

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Treatment Options

Offering Advanced Treatments

Treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome varies and is based largely upon the type that you have.

Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome 

Treatment of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome almost always begins with physical therapy to stretch and open the space between your collar bone and first rib. Many people improve with this alone.

If physical therapy is unsuccessful, your doctor may suggest surgery to remove your first rib and open up your thoracic outlet. In many cases this can bring significant relief.

Venous Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

If swelling is sudden and severe with venous thoracic outlet syndrome, medication or an interventional procedure may be needed to remove the clot. This can include directed clot busters with possible ballooning of the blockage.

Your doctor may also suggest surgery to remove the rib that is causing the clot. Blood thinners may then be prescribed for several months after the procedure.

Arterial Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Treatment of arterial thoracic outlet syndrome will depend upon how you are affected by the compression. If the subclavian artery is damaged, you may require surgery to remove the extra or abnormal ribs along with reconstruction of the artery.

Schedule an appointment or call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) today.