Quote:
Originally Posted by 184jones
I have just had surgery for rib resection and scalenectomy on the right side 7 weeks ago due to critical compression of the artery but when they did the MRI angiogram there was also a narrowing of the left side.
Has anyone else got bilateral arterial TOS and if so were they able to avoid surgery on the other side? I had a surgeon say its just a mater of time and I may need the other side done in the next 5 years. Is there anything I can do to improve the left side and is there things that will make it worse?
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Yes I have bilateral arterial (and venous and neurogenic), and so far have avoided major surgery. I'm about to repeat CT-guided procedures where they inject a bunch of anesthetic into the scalene to try to blow up the muscle like a balloon, followed by Botox to shrink the muscle. I also rely on PT and meds, and Botox injections into other spastic muscles.
I may well have the surgeries, but those are some of the non-surgical strategies I've been using.
I think over-exertion, and bad ergonomics or body mechanics will make TOS worse, and anything that gives a whiplash-like effect. Anything that tenses the scalenes.
How is your surgical outcome so far? I haven't been able to use my arms unsupported above chest level for 10 years. I would love to get a real decompression in there. But I'm on the fence about surgery...
Can you tell me about your angiogram? I'm supposed to have one. (Also venograms.)