Vascular Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Program

About Vascular Thoracic Outlet Syndrome  |  Highlights  |  Our Team  |  Location  |  Appointments

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a frustrating and difficult-to-diagnose condition that can significantly impact your quality of life. One of the most important steps towards treating TOS is determining the cause–whether it’s due to a vascular issue or a nerve issue. The Vascular Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Program at Columbia can identify and treat all vascular causes of TOS using the latest surgical and non-surgical techniques to bring you the relief you need.

To learn more or to make an appointment with the Vascular Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Program, please call (646) 317-8282.

What Is Vascular Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)?

3D illustration showing that the thoracic outlet, a space between the collarbone, or clavicle, and the first rib, is crowded with blood vessels. Also crowding this space, but not depicted, are nerves and muscles.
3D illustration showing that the thoracic outlet, a space between the collarbone, or clavicle, and the first rib, is crowded with blood vessels. Also crowding this space, but not depicted, are nerves and muscles.

Vascular TOS is characterized by compression of the blood vessels in the thoracic outlet, the small area between the collarbone (clavicle) and the first rib. This compression can lead to a variety of symptoms, including discomfort, pain, numbness, weakness, and circulation problems. (Neurogenic TOS is a result of the compression of the brachial nerves and can typically be managed with medication and physical therapy.)

TOS can be caused by trauma, poor posture, unique physiology, or repetitive physical stress to the body. Because symptoms can mimic those of other conditions, TOS can be difficult to diagnose; in many cases, the exact cause is unclear.

Vascular TOS can cause blood clots to form and can result in a dangerous and potentially life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism, where a blood clot travels to the lungs. Surgical correction is the recommended treatment for vascular TOS.

Learn More About Vascular Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Conditions We Treat

  • Arterial thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS)
  • Nonspecific TOS
  • Venous thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS)
  • Neurogenic thoracic syndrome
  • Cervical ribs causing TOS

Treatments We Offer

  • Decompression surgery
  • Medical management
  • Physical therapy
  • Thrombolytic therapy
  • Vascular structural repair

Highlights

Unmatched Surgical Excellence

Columbia is a world leader in surgical innovation and offers the latest procedures for TOS, including graft surgery for vascular repair.

Personalized Diagnosis and Care

Our highly skilled specialists can determine the specific issue you are experiencing and create a comprehensive individualized plan to improve or eliminate your symptoms.

A Multidisciplinary Approach

Our expert TOS team includes vascular and thoracic surgeons, neurologists, physical therapists, and other specialists to provide the best care possible.

Our Team

Our program’s team of vascular surgeons provide expert diagnosis and comprehensive care for vascular thoracic outlet syndrome, even for hard-to-treat cases.

Dr Virendra Patel

Virendra I. Patel, MD, MPH

Vascular Surgeon | Co-Director, Aortic Center
 

Our Location

Columbia University Irving Medical Center | (646) 317-8282
Herbert Irving Pavilion
161 Fort Washington Ave, 5th Floor
New York, NY 10032

Make an Appointment

If you are experiencing symptoms of or have been diagnosed with vascular or neurogenic TOS and would like to learn more about treatment options, call (646) 317-8282 to connect with the Vascular Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Program at Columbia.

We accept most major insurance plans and can verify your coverage when you call to make your appointment.

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