RESUMO
The aim of this study is to describe our experience with the surgical treatment of arterial and venous thoracic outlet syndrome. This prospective study included 25 patients with vascular compression manifestations at thoracic outlet area. They were admitted to Vascular Surgery Unit, Mansoura University Hospital during the period from July 2004 to December 2007. patients were classified into two main groups. Group I [arterial thoracic outlet syndrome, n=16]. Group II [venous thoracic outlet syndrome, n=9]. The operations for arterial reconstruction [n=13] were worthwhile for all patients with excellent results in 11 patients [84.6%], only 2 patients [15.4%] developed early postoperative thrombosis which was managed by transbrachial thrombectomy. The success rate of surgical interference for nonthrombotic venous patients [n=2] was 100% while that for thrombotic venous patients showed success in 4 patients [57%] and failed in 3 patients [43%]. In patients with vascular compression, resection of the first rib, resection of cervical rib, scalenectomy and neurolysis of the brachial plexus are recommended in addition to vascular reconstruction. Our experiences using the supraclavicular approach indicate that this is a safe route with good results and minimal risk to the patients health