Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndromes.

'Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome' is a poorly defined and controversial term for a group ofupper extremity nerve compression disorders.' The objective of this article is to summarize current knowledge, review controversies, and formulate a rational management plan for neurogenic thoracic outlet syndromes (NTOS). We will present a balanced perspective that considers thoracic surgical and neurological viewpoints. Thoracic outlet syndromes can be divided into four groups: arterial, venous, classic neurogenic, and non-specific neurogenic.2'3 The diagnosis of arterial and venous thoracic outlet syndromes is straightforward since characteristic clinical and radiographic findings are present. Classic NTOS is a diagnosis based on objective diagnostic features. Non-specific NTOS is a diagnosis based on suggestive symptomatology and exclusion of other entities. Vascular thoracic outlet syndromes are not discussed. Classic and non-specific NTOS will be reviewed separately.