Syndrome of nerve compression in the thoracic outlet

Introduction. The nerve conduction studies, F-waves and dermatosomal and lor somatosensory evoked potential have a low level of sensitivity for Thoracic Outlet Compression Syndrome (TOCS) diagnosis. A standard negative electrodiagnosis study does not exclude the presence of TOCS. Objective. The purpose of this neurophysiological note is that the Wright's hiperabduction, costoclavicular compression and Adson's scalenus tests important in making a clinical diagnosis of TOCS can be used as neurophysiological provocative maneuvers to determine the effect of braquial position on electrodiagnostic parameters. Material and methods. Nine selected TOCS patients were evaluated previous and following provocative maneuvers for 3 and 6 minutes. Results. The results showed a positive electrodiagnostic study in 7/9 patients. Conclusions. It is suggested that patients with presumptive TOCS and negative electrodiagnostic findings be reevaluated immediately after 6 minutes of Wright's, Adson's or costoclavicular compression provocative tests.