My Dr said today he has no doubt this is ntos, but as this isn't his "area" he wants me checked by a specialist. Looks like I am headed to St Louis. They are referring me to see Dr. Thompson. I am nervous , scared, excited and hopeful all in one bundle of pain.

How will this examination differ clinically from visits with orthos, neuros etc?

What can I expect during this type of assessment? I was told this would be an extensive evaluation.

Any helpful hints or suggestions? I have devoured the website at Washington university TOS center. Info from anyone who has 'been there done that' would be appreciated.

I hope you will report back on how it goes.

Not sure, but I think most of the TOS specialist guys prefer to have their own MRI, EMG/NCV, nerve blocks, and any other testing they feel is needed, and maybe some hands on /positional checks too ...

Have you seen Dr Thompson yet? I saw him a few years ago for TOS but did not care for him or his staff. Seems that they were too busy to care, or take time with me. He is a little too surgery happy and removing a rib is a very invasive surgery and hard to recover from. I Know two people that had surgery performed by him and they have both said that the surgery was brutal and he pretty much washes his hands of you when he's done.
Be sure to let us know how it goes!

My apt is March 25th. I will absolutely update.
I understand what you say about abandonment after surgery. Most surgeons I have encountered see you through a surgical mask. If you only have a hammer everything looks like a nail. I am sorry you had that experience. Doctors forget that we are feeling beings rather than just meat.