Thoracic Outlet Decompression

Thoracic outlet decompression is a medical procedure used to relieve pressure on nerves and/or blood vessels that have been compressed or irritated due to thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS).

Man standing on a hill with the sun setting behind him

Thoracic Outlet Relief

A thoracic outlet decompression procedure can be performed through open surgery, relieving pain, numbness, tingling, and other symptoms associated with TOS. The recovery time for this procedure may vary based on the patient's healing process.

What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a group of medical conditions that occur due to the compression, injury, or irritation of nerves and/or blood vessels (arteries and veins) in the lower neck and upper chest area. This area between the lower neck and the upper chest is known as the thoracic outlet. Thoracic outlet syndrome can affect anyone regardless of age or gender.

How is Thoracic Outlet Decompression Used to Treat Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Thoracic outlet decompression is a medical procedure used to treat thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS), which is caused by compression, irritation, or injury to nerves and/or blood vessels in the lower neck and upper chest.

Open surgery

In open surgery, a surgeon makes an incision at the affected area to release pressure on the nerves and/or blood vessels in order to reduce pain and improve movement. The surgeon may also need to cut through any muscles compressing the affected area. This surgery usually takes a few hours, but recovery is typically 4-6 weeks.

What to Expect Prior to Your Thoracic Outlet Decompression?

Prior to undergoing a thoracic outlet decompression procedure, your doctor will ask a variety of questions about your health history. They may also use a range of imaging diagnostic tools to properly assess the area such as:

Ultrasound scans
CT scans
MRIs
Angiograms

These images will help your doctor to better understand any underlying conditions that may be present. Make sure to provide accurate information about your medical history in order to ensure the best possible outcome with the surgery. Additionally, standard preoperative procedures should be followed such as avoiding eating or drinking after midnight before surgery and refraining from taking certain medications prior to the operation.

Thoracic Outlet Decompression What to Expect During Your Procedure

During a thoracic outlet decompression procedure, you should expect to be in the operating room (OR) for an approximately 2-hour period. Depending on the situation, your doctor will make an incision in the neck above the collarbone and completely decompress the nerves of the brachial plexus, removing any scar or connective tissue. A second incision to access the nerves in the chest is occasionally required.

Why Choose Atlas Institute Peripheral Nerve Care for Your Thoracic Outlet Decompression?

At Atlas Institute Peripheral Nerve Care, you will receive top-notch care with our state-of-the-art nerve center, equipped with the latest in diagnostic and therapeutic technology. We provide both surgical and non-surgical solutions to help relieve your nerve pain or dysfunction. Our team is down-to-earth and focused on delivering accurate and effective treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome in Denver.

We understand how frustrating it can be when you have been passed around from doctor to doctor without finding any real relief for your symptoms. With us, we strive for you to get back to living a pain-free lifestyle and gaining full functionality of your nerves. We take the time to listen and accurately diagnose your condition before formulating a directed treatment plan that is tailored to suit your needs.

Advanced Training in Nerve Procedures

At the Atlas Institute Peripheral Nerve Care, our practitioners have advanced training in nerve-specific maladies so that we can offer comprehensive care rather than just treating part of an issue. We believe in thoughtful and meticulous surgery that allows patients to look and function beautifully again.