Surgical techniques: Thrombolysis, IVUS, and balloon angioplasty for VTOS

Abstract

Venous thoracic outlet syndrome (VTOS) requires imaging to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of involvement and chronicity. In patients who present with acute effort thrombosis, thrombolysis is typically the first step. Tools for performing pharmacomechanical thrombolysis and strategies for their use will be discussed. Angioplasty and occasionally stenting are important techniques for managing residual stenoses after operative decompression of the thoracic outlet.