Just a quick update. Had 1st rib removal and scalenotomy left side in mid Dec 2013 and they found out it was definitely ATOS and they found collaterals.

The recovery is at times quite hard. I do not have so much pain but I am not able to sit for long times not to mention at a desk with computer. I had ATOS all my life and with symptoms evolving since my early adulthood. So my nerves still burn a lot on the left side (shoulder, outer arm, forearm) and I have tension in my upper trapezius and levator scapulae since these guys got shortened over time. I did have the same problem on my right side and it took about 6 months to get better. I will be back at work starting next week, although just for a few hours a day. Doctors say it will take 2 years for my system to heal. But, the only way is up. I have now PT twice a week and I also do Craniosacral therapy every two weeks now. The improvement is slow but steady and I do not regret to have undergone surgery. Wouldn't want to go back pre-OP.

Cheers!