Complex vascular and nerve condition
Thoracic Outlet
Syndrome
Deeper Understanding.
Premium vascular assessment and personalised care.
Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) occurs when the nerves and/or blood vessels that pass between the collarbone and first rib become compressed. We provide comprehensive assessment to identify the underlying cause and guide the most appropriate treatment for your symptoms.
EXPERIENCED CLINICAL CARE | ADVANCED IMAGING | PERSONALISED TREATMENT
Comprehensive assessment
Detailed history, examination and vascular ultrasound
Evidence based management
tailored to your specific findingsand goals.
vascular care
experienced team in complex vacular and neurovascular management
personalised treatment plan
conservative and interventional options when appropriate
ABOUT TOS
What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
Key anatomy
Types of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Neurogenic TOS
The most common type involving compression of the brachial plexus nerves. It can cause pain, numbness, tinglings, weakness or heaviness in the neck, shoulder arm or hand
Venous TOS
Compression of the subclavian vein can reduce blood flow, potentially causing arm swelling, a feeling of heaviness, visible veins or in some cases blood clots.
Arterial TOS
Less common. involving compression of the subclavian artery. May affect blood flow in the arm leading to symptoms such as ar fatigue, coldness or changes in skin colour.
Symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Symptoms can vary depending on whether the nerve, vein or artery is affected. Common symptoms include:
Neck & Shoulder pain
Arm pain & heaviness
Numbness or tinglings
Arm swelling (venous TOS)
Weakness or reduced grip strength
Changes in skin colour or temperature
What causes Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
TOS can be caused by a combination of anatomical, lifestyle and activity-related factors including:
• Narrow thoracic outlet or anatomical variations (e.g. cervical rib)
• Repetitive overhead movements or heavy lifting
• Previous injury or trauma to the neck, shoulder or collarbone
• Postural factors and muscle tightness
• Scarring or changes after a blood clot (venous TOS)
DIAGNOSIS
How is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome diagnosed?
• Detailed clinical history and physical examination
• Vascular ultrasound (duplex) to assess blood flow and compressio
• Additional imaging (e.g. X-ray, CT or MRI) when required
• Assessment for associated conditions such as upper limb DVT or cervical rib
treatment options
Management tailored to your needs
Treatment depends on the type and severity of your symptoms, We develop a personalised plan based on your diagnosis, lifestyle and goals.
Conservative management
Activity modification
physiotherapy or posture correction
Pain management
Minimally invasive treatments
Ultrasound guided injection ( where appropriate) management of venous compression or blood clot
Surgical referral
For select cases, we work closely with surgeons for first rib resection or other procedures when conservative treatments are not effective.
