Outcome of transaxillary rib resection for thoracic outlet syndrome--a 10 year experience.
BACKGROUND
This study assessed the outcome of transaxillary first and/or cervical rib resection in a unit, which has a policy of combined assessment by a neurologist and vascular surgeon.


METHODS
61 patients underwent 83 transaxillary rib resections for thoracic outlet syndrome. A retrospective case note review of these patients was undertaken. All patients completed a telephone questionnaire regarding long-term outcome.


RESULTS
Post-operative outpatient assessment at a median of 6 months recorded 91.5% improved, of whom 61.5% were symptom-free. 61% were available for the telephone questionnaire at a median follow-up of 4 yr. 74% reported an improvement, with complete resolution in 58%. Six described temporary improvement following surgery.


CONCLUSIONS
Transaxillary rib resection is a safe and effective procedure, allowing almost two thirds of patients a return to normal activity. Combined assessment by vascular and neurological teams may help in patient selection for surgery, as well as the accurate long-term assessment of outcome.
Fulford
P E
PE
Department of Vascular Surgery, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9WL, UK.
Baguneid
M S
MS
Ibrahim
M R
MR
Schady
W
W
Walker
M G
MG
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012272:Ribs / Q000601:surgery*; D013901:Thoracic Outlet Syndrome / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome