Treatment of upper limb arterial occlusion caused by a cervical rib

Abstract

The cervical rib syndrome occurs when the interscalene triangle is occupied by a cervical rib, displacing the brachial plexus and the subclavian artery forward, which can cause pain and muscle spasms. The objective of this study is to discuss diagnosis of the cervical rib syndrome and treatment possibilities. This therapeutic challenge describes clinical and surgical management of a 37-year-old female patient with upper limb arterial occlusion caused by a cervical rib.

Keywords:
cervical rib; thoracic outlet syndrome; subclavian artery; subclavian vein; brachial plexus