Thanks Nelly! I finally researched your surgeon and surgery (saw a video clip). Do you mind sharing some of the advantages of robotic surgery, and why you chose this approach? I know you mentioned that you had the rib removed. Did you also have the scalenes removed?

Lindsay - my understanding is that collateral vessels are any extra (abnormal) vessels that sprout or enlarge to reroute blood flow around blockages. These may show up on imaging or may be visible without special imaging. If you are seeing an unusual network of veins on your shoulder, it may suggest more extensive collateralization. Have you been diagnosed with venous TOS?