Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Compensation Claims

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome can affect both nerves and blood vessels. Depending on the way these are affected, TOS can be categorised into 3 main types:

• Neurogenic: This type of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome occurs when the brachial plexus becomes compressed. The brachial plexus is a network of nerves which manage movement and sensation of your shoulders and upper extremities.
• Arterial: Arterial Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is the rarest of the types of TOS, but one of the most dangerous. Arterial TOS affects the arteries under the collarbone, and can cause aneurysm, the bulging of an artery.
• Venous: When the veins that pass below the clavicle are compressed, Venous Thoracic Outlet Syndrome may occur. This type of TOS often involves the presence of blood clots.

Each case of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is different, and more than one type can coexist for one patient. When multiple parts of the Thoracic Outlet are suffering from excessive pressure, both the nerves and veins or arteries can be damaged. The type, or mix of types, of TOS can influence the symptoms suffered by TOS patients.

Symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome can vary greatly depending on the type of TOS you may be suffering from, the severity of your condition, and other risk factors such as age and sex. If you consistently suffer from any number of the following symptoms, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible, and obtain an official diagnosis if Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is found to be occurring.

• Blood clots in the upper extremities and thorax
• Cold sensation and discoloration in the arms and hands
• Arm or neck fatigue
• Weak grip
• Absent or weak pulse in the arms
• Pulsating lump near the clavicle
• Pain or swelling of the arms
• Tingling or numbness of the upper extremities

These symptoms can commonly be overlooked by patients and medical professionals alike. Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is often misunderstood, and reaching a diagnosis with a treatment plan for the future can be challenging. If your diagnosis of TOS has been delayed or mistaken for another condition as a result of medical negligence, our team at Brian Barr Solicitors can help you.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome can be difficult to diagnose, as symptoms can vary between different patients in type and severity. TOS sufferers will typically undergo a review of their medical history and a physical examination, looking for any physical evidence of the condition. This can include lumps, discoloration, or absent or weak pulses in the arms. The range of motion of the arms is also commonly tested.

Confirmation of a TOS diagnosis will include a series of medical tests, such as:

• Ultrasound: This is typically the first medical test taken to confirm a diagnosis. It’s used to rule out other conditions affecting the vascular system.
• X-Ray: X-ray scans can be useful to rule out other conditions, and test for the presence of an additional cervical rib which may compress or construct blood vessels and nerves in the thoracic area.
• CT Scans: A CT scan can produce more precise mapping of the vascular network of the thorax and highlight any compression of vessels in the area.
• MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging is often used to detect the location, cause, and severity of the compression of blood vessels. This test may reveal congenital anomalies, and different positions of your head and shoulders may be required by your doctor to get a better picture of the veins and arteries.
• Arteriography and venography: These tests involve inserting a catheter that moves through the vascular network – in the arteries for arteriographies, and in veins for venographies. A dye is then injected to aid X-ray imaging of the blood vessels, in order to clearly see any obstructions or compression. Clot-dissolving medication can also be administered through the catheter if a clot is found during the examination.
• EMG: An Electromyography can detect nerve damage by using electrodes connected to your muscles while they rest and contract.