Thoracic outlet syndrome: anatomy

Hand Clin. 2004 Feb;20(1):7-14, v. doi: 10.1016/s0749-0712(03)00078-7.

Abstract

The thoracic outlet region contains three important structures: the brachial plexus, the subclavian artery, and the subclavian vein. As they travel from the upper mediastinum to the upper extremity, these structures run through three important spaces: the interscalene triangle, the costoclavicular space, and the subpectoral space. Compression can occur in any of these three spaces because of structural anomalies or trauma.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brachial Plexus / anatomy & histology
  • Brachial Plexus / physiopathology
  • Clavicle / anatomy & histology
  • Clavicle / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Neck Muscles / anatomy & histology
  • Neck Muscles / physiopathology
  • Pectoralis Muscles / anatomy & histology
  • Pectoralis Muscles / physiopathology
  • Subclavian Artery / anatomy & histology
  • Subclavian Artery / physiopathology
  • Subclavian Vein / anatomy & histology
  • Subclavian Vein / physiopathology
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome / pathology*
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome / physiopathology
  • Thorax / anatomy & histology
  • Thorax / physiopathology