First rib resection has been advocated for relief of severe cases of the commonly encountered thoracic outlet syndrome and appears more satisfactory than any operations previously used. The details and advantages of a new approach for first rib resection through the axilla are presented. This approach effects relief of the distressing outlet syndrome in a safer and simpler manner than the older technics with little postoperative morbidity, and with no deformity or disfigurement. Fifteen first rib resections have been performed by the transaxillary approach with apparently complete relief of the syndrome in each of the 12 in the sensory group of patients, and in two of three with vascular symptoms. One vascular patient is considerably improved but not completely relieved, judged on short follow up. No major complications have been encountered.
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First rib resection has been advocated for relief of severe cases of the commonly encountered thoracic outlet syndrome and appears more satisfactory than any operations previously used. The details and advantages of a new approach for first rib resection through the axilla are presented. This approach effects relief of the distressing outlet syndrome in a safer and simpler manner than the older technics with little postoperative morbidity, and with no deformity or disfigurement. Fifteen first rib resections have been performed by the transaxillary approach with apparently complete relief of the syndrome in each of the 12 in the sensory group of patients, and in two of three with vascular symptoms. One vascular patient is considerably improved but not completely relieved, judged on short follow up. No major complications have been encountered.
Copyright remains with the authors and publisher.