What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)?
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is a compression or entrapment of the major nerves, arteries and veins that pass from the neck and chest to each upper extremity. TOS frequently results from occupational overuse of computers, or from neck injuries suffered in motor vehicle accidents, and is rapidly becoming more recognized by the medical community. Clinical diagnosis of TOS is complex and challenging, but appropriate awareness, prompt diagnosis and appropriate directed therapy is vitally important, as TOS patients may rapidly progress to severe pain, long-term disability and the inability to perform activities of daily living. When diagnosis is delayed or absent, TOS may lead to stroke or to the loss of the intrinsic muscles of the hands, both of which are potentially devastating. TOS should be considered in all patients who present with neck and arm pain. Although a variety of imaging modalities have been utilized previously to evaluate patients with TOS, none was able to provide a reli
