Arterial thoracic outlet Syndrome (ATOS), also known as compression artery, is a condition that causes a narrowing of the artery between your collarbone (or ribs) and your ribs. ATOS patients may develop blood clots within this artery. These blood clots may travel down your arm and break off. In severe cases, the clots may travel to your lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism.
OVERVIEW
The subclavian arterial thoracic outlet syndrome causes blood clots by compressing the subclavian blood vessel.
What is arterial Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
Arterial thoracic outlets syndrome (ATOS) is a condition that affects the artery between your collarbone and ribs. The thoracic outlet is located between your collarbone and ribs.
Your blood flows through your arteries, from your heart to all body parts. ATOS patients have a compressed artery at their thoracic outlet.
ATOS can lead to serious health problems if you don’t seek treatment. An aneurysm is a condition where the wall of an artery weakens or expands in some people. You must see a healthcare provider if you experience any symptoms of ATOS. They may run tests to rule out ATOS.
Who could get the arterial thoracic outlet condition?
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is more common among women aged 20-50. Most commonly, compression of the artery in your thoracic outlet occurs because you have an extra rib (a “cervical” rib) or a rib that is not in the right place.
What are the complications associated with arterial Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
The most serious type of thoracic outlet disorder is an arterial thoracic syndrome. ATOS can lead to severe blood clots in the arteries if it is not treated. Blood flow can be affected to your arm or hand by the clots. Rarely, blood clots may also travel to the brain and cause strokes.
It is important to seek treatment as soon as you notice signs of thoracic outlet disease.
Is arterial thoracic outlet syndrome common?
Rare are all types of thoracic outlet syndromes (TOS). Experts aren’t sure how many people have it. The most common type of TOS is arterial TOS. Artery thoracic outlet syndrome is less than one in 100 cases.
SYMPTOMS & CAUSES
What is the cause of arterial Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
Many people who have ATOS were born with an extra collarbone rib. The cervical rib is located above the first rib of most people.
The subclavian arterial, which carries blood to your neck, arms, neck, and head, is located between your arm and your clavicle. An extra cervical rib may compress the subclavian arterial, preventing blood flow and allowing blood to clot. These blood clots can travel through your arm and block blood flow.
The following are possible causes of arterial Thoracic Outlet Syndrome:
- Obesity puts additional pressure on your joints.
- A car accident injury can cause physical trauma.
- Poor position.
- Pregnancy.
- Repetitive movements include throwing a softball or baseball or lifting boxes above your head.
What are the symptoms of arterial Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
The arterial thoracic outlet disorder symptoms can affect your entire arm, fingers, and hands. A dull ache or numbness on one arm is the most common sign. The symptoms are more severe if you use your arm and less if you rest. People with ATOS usually don’t experience any symptoms in the neck or shoulder.
ATOS can reduce blood circulation. Your blood circulation may be reduced in your arm, fingers and hand.
- Coldness.
- Numbness and tingling.
- Pain.
- Pale discoloration.
- Slow-healing wounds.
DIAGNOSIS and TESTS
What is the diagnosis of arterial Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
Your healthcare provider will examine your neck, shoulder and arm area if you suspect that you may have arterial thoracic outlet Syndrome. They may ask you to perform certain movements to check your range of motion.
Your healthcare provider will also check your blood pressure and interview you about your symptoms. You may be referred to a specialist if they suspect ATOS.
MANAGEMENT & TREATMENT
How can arterial thoracic outlet syndrome be treated?
The treatment of arterial thoracic outlet disorder almost always requires surgery. Your healthcare provider may prescribe medication like warfarin (Coumadin(r), or Hep-Lock(TM), to help break down blood clots before the operation. You may also be offered medication injections or a procedure to treat clots.
Your healthcare provider may perform arterial thoracic outlet surgery.
- To relieve pressure, remove a portion of your extra rib.
- An arterial graft is a procedure that replaces damaged arteries with a portion of an artery from another area of the body.
- To redirect blood flow, replace a damaged artery with an artificial tube.