Hello! I'm not from the LA area, so I can't help you there, although several here are and I'm sure you'll get some good answers. I thought that I might be able to address a couple of your other questions, though.

I noticed on another thread you asked about Dr. Sanders. I live in the Denver area and have seen Dr. Sanders. My doctor here sent me to him because all he does are TOS surgeries, and therefore my doctor felt that made him the most knowledgeable in the field. He performed a lengthy exam, during which my scalene block was also inconclusive. He did recommend surgery for me (my TOS is also from an accident), giving me a 60/40 chance of improvement. However my PM Dr. feels that may include about a 20% chance of worsening symptoms, so at this time I've chosen against the surgery...I've also had some possible early RSD symptoms, which also makes me decide against surgery right now. I have some contributing factors with the TOS, with some instability in my clavicle at the SC joint, which cannot be repaired surgically and would still be an issue even if I had a scalenectomy done. Dr. Sanders says he doesn't touch the clavicle.

I am, however, considering having myobloc injections done in the scalenes by my PM Dr. I discussed this was Dr. Sanders on the phone and he felt it would be a good option for me at this time. I mentioned to my PM Dr. that the scalene block and Dr. Sanders office was inconclusive; however, he said he would do the blocks under fluoroscopy in order to assure proper placement of the needles, as he said that placement can affect the result of the block.

I also questioned whether or not a vascular surgeon would treat a neurogenic TOS, as mine also appears to be almost completely if not completely neurogenic; however, with Dr. Sanders experience in dealing with all types of TOS, I would feel comfortable with him during the surgery if I choose to do that in the future. I did go to see a neurosurgeon for a second opinion, who also felt that this surgery at this time might not be the best option. He did recommend the myobloc procedure, though. With this surgeon I did go ahead and have a cervical fusion done last summer, in hopes that fixing the disk problems in my neck may help with the numbness and pain in my arm. I also discussed that surgery with Dr. Sanders, who felt it would be a reasonable attempt at solving some of my problems; however, it did nothing for my TOS symptoms.

Well that's a lot about me and I'm not sure if any of it will be a help to you, but I wanted to give you my two cents worth. I do know that Dr. Sanders seems to be a very nice and knowledgeable doctor, and I have spoken with him on the phone for follow-ups a couple of times. I would also be interested to find out the success rate of scalenectomies... I discussed that with Dr. Sanders, who is beginning to compile some information regarding his own patients. I don't know if he's published that or not yet; at the time I saw him it was still just an informal research project going on.

Take care, and I hope you find some relief!

Donna