Rib Resection Research Articles

Pulmonary function after thoracoplasty for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Thoracoplasty is a procedure which involves rib resection from the costovertebral junction to the apex of the rib hump deformity to address the cosmetic concerns of patients of scoliosis. There is conflicting literature on its effect on pulmonary function. The present meta-analysis was conducted to review and analyze the available literature and ascertain the effect of thoracoplasty on pulmonary function. Search was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines on three databases. After analysis of all the search results by title, abstracts and full texts-10 studies were identified for inclusion in the review. We included studies which had analyzed preoperative and postoperative pulmonary function tests (PFTs) after thoracoplasty. Pooled estimates were calculated for pulmonary function, and effect of other factors was analyzed by subgroup analysis and meta-regression. The included studies were published between 1998 and 2019. A total of 385 patients were included in these studies, with a mean age of 15.01years, with a female preponderance. Apprehension over appearance of rib hump was the most common indication for thoracoplasty. Percent-predicted forced vital capacity(FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1s (FEV-1) were significantly decreased on follow-up. Anterior approach to corrective surgery and lower age were found to be associated with worse pulmonary function. Preoperative Cobb's angle was found to have significant impact on decrease in FEV-1 only, but not on other PFT parameters. Overall decrease in pulmonary function after thoracoplasty necessitates the need of adequate preoperative pulmonary function to mitigate its effect on patient well-being. Use of a posterior approach for corrective surgery when thoracoplasty is planned might lead to better outcomes. More research is needed to study effect of preoperative Cobb's angle on pulmonary function.

Opioid-Sparing Effects of the Bupivacaine Pleural Catheter in Surgical Decompression of the Thoracic Outlet

Rib resection in thoracic outlet decompression can result in significant postoperative pain requiring high levels of opioid medications. We evaluated the impact of a bupivacaine infusing pleural catheter on postoperative pain and opioid usage in patients undergoing rib resection for thoracic outlet syndrome. We hypothesized that delivery of local anesthetic via the pleural catheter would improve postoperative pain control compared to standard multimodal analgesia, and that the use of the catheter would decrease opioid use during the index hospitalization and prescriptions for opioid pain medications at discharge. We conducted a single-center retrospective cohort study of 26 patients who underwent rib resection for thoracic outlet decompression. Primary outcome was opioid consumption during the index hospitalization, measured in morphine milligram equivalents (MME). Secondary outcomes were MME prescribed at discharge and pain scores during the index hospitalization before and after the pleural drain and pleural catheter were removed. Patients in the bupivacaine infusion pleural catheter group (n=11) had significantly lower MME usage during the index hospitalization (22.5 [1.9, 65.6] vs. 119.8 [76.5, 167.4]), and significantly lower MME prescribed at discharge (0 [0, 37.5] vs. 225 [183, 315]), compared to standard multimodal analgesia in controls (n=15). Only 3 patients in the bupivacaine pleural catheter group were discharged with any opioid prescriptions (27%), compared to 14 patients in the control group (93%). There was no difference in postoperative pain scores between groups before or after removal of the pleural drain, which was placed in all cases (P=0.31 and P=0.76, respectively). Intraoperative placement of a bupivacaine infusion pleural catheter significantly reduced opioid use during the index hospitalization and opioid prescribing at discharge. Anesthetic infusion pleural catheters should be the treatment modality of choice for postoperative pain management in patients undergoing thoracic outlet decompression.

The influence of costal resection on pulmonary function after total en bloc spondylectomy for spine tumor

BackgroundTotal en bloc spondylectomy (TES) is one of the surgical procedures which has been recognized as a complete resection for spine tumors. Although the surgery achieves favorable local control for solitary spinal lesion, performing the procedure in the thoracic spine requires circumferential dissection around the vertebral body and bilateral rib resections which might result in decline of pulmonary function postoperatively. This study aimed to clarify whether the number of rib resections negatively impacts pulmonary function after the procedure. MethodsThis study included 31 patients who underwent vertebrectomy (17 males and 14 females) with a mean age of 54.2 years. Pulmonary function testing (PFT) was performed before surgery and at 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year postoperative visits. Patients with restrictive disorders such as space occupying lesions in the lung, obstructive problems such as a history of asthma, and smoking history were excluded from this study. Associations between the number of rib resections and PFT data were analyzed based on the resected level of the thoracic spine. ResultsThere was a significant decrease in forced vital capacity (FVC) at 1 month (72% of preoperative value), followed by gradual recovery at 6 months (89%) and 1 year (90%). The percentage of predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s remained stable. Patients who underwent three pairs of rib resections showed a significant decrease in the FVC (83.5% of the preoperative value) and FEV1 (82.1% of the preoperative value) compared with one or two pairs of rib resections. ConclusionFVC decreased 1 month after vertebrectomy and returned to 90% of preoperative value at 1 year postoperatively. Three pairs of rib resections showed a significant decrease in FVC, suggesting the influence of a greater numbers of rib resections on pulmonary function.

Medium Term Outcomes of Deep Venous Stenting in the Management of Venous Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Venous thoracic outlet syndrome (vTOS) is a relatively rare condition associated with significant morbidity. Its management continues to evolve, with increasing use of endovascular adjuncts, such as percutaneous thrombectomy and angioplasty, in addition to first rib resection. The utility of stenting residual venous stenotic lesions is poorly defined within the literature. This study sought to review the medium term patency rates of upper limb deep venous stenting in the management of vTOS. A single centre, retrospective review of patients managed for vTOS with first rib resection followed by upper limb deep venous stenting between January 2012 and February 2021 was conducted. Post-procedural ultrasounds were reviewed to determine stent patency. Twenty-six patients were included, with 33 stents placed. The median duration of follow up was 50 months. On venous duplex ultrasound at three years post-operatively, primary patency rates were 66%, primary assisted patency rates were 88%, secondary patency rates were 91%, and total occlusion rates were 9%. After stent placement, 80% of patients remained asymptomatic with regard to compression symptoms. Upper limb deep venous stenting is an effective adjunct to surgical decompression in the management of vTOS. Stent medium term patency rates are promising; however, further studies with longer follow up and larger cohorts with multicentre results are required to confirm these early findings.

Presentation, management and outcome of surgically managed pediatric thoracic outlet syndrome.

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a rare disorder involving compression of the brachial plexus, subclavian artery, and subclavian vein. There is a paucity of data for this pathology's surgical treatment within pediatrics. The objective of this study is to explore the presentation, management, and outcome of pediatric TOS. A retrospective chart review was conducted for 44 patients at a single institution undergoing surgery for TOS. Data was collected on demographics, pre- and postoperative factors, and outcomes. Forty-four patients underwent 50 surgeries (8 bilaterally). The average age was 15.5years with 72% female. The most common symptoms were numbness (72%) and pain (66%), with a normal exam in 58%. The average symptom duration prior to surgery was 35.2months. A supraclavicular approach was performed in all patients, with anterior scalene section(90%), rib resection (72%), neurolysis (92%), and intraoperative EMG (84%) commonly used. Two patients had a lymphatic leak. All patients reported subjective improvement of preoperative symptoms of numbness (26%), pain (22%), and weakness (6%). Differences between vTOS (n = 9) and nTOS (n = 35) included higher preop swelling (p < 0.012), decreased symptom duration (p < 0.022), higher venogram usage (p < 0.0030), and higher preoperative thrombolytics/angioplasty (p < 0.001) in vTOS compared to nTOS. A comparison of soft tissue and soft tissue with bone decompression did not reveal any outcome differences. Pediatric TOS benefits from a multidisciplinary approach, showing good outcomes in postoperative symptom resolution. In our cohort, a supraclavicular approach provided an effective window for decompression with a low complication rate.

TH4.7 Seventeen years experience of surgical management of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome at a District General Hospital

Abstract Aims To evaluate the outcomes of patients who underwent first rib resection (FRR) for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) over a period of 17 years at a single District General Hospital (DGH). Methods Retrospective review of patient notes of individuals treated with FRR from August 2004 to August 2021. Results Sixty patients underwent 65 subclavian approach FRR for indications neurogenic (n=45 (69%)), venous (n=6 (9%)), arterial (n=14 (22%)) TOS. Forty-four female patients underwent FRR (68%) and mean age at time of surgery 34 years (range 27 to 64 years). Five patients (7.6%) had bilateral FRR and seven patients (10.6%) diagnosed with cervical rib. Mean length of time from initial symptoms to diagnosis 24 months (range 2 to 60 months). Forty patients (62%) underwent a failed trial of conservative management with physiotherapy before proceeding to surgical management. Fifty-two patients (80%) reported complete resolution of symptoms at follow up. Complications included wound infections 2(3%), pneumothorax 4(6%), haemothorax 1(1.5%), phrenic nerve complications 3(4.6%) and chronic pain 1(1.5%). One patient with phrenic nerve injury underwent diaphragmatic plication procedure with resultant resolution of symptoms. Mean length of stay 1.6 days. Conclusions This series presents the difficulty of diagnosis and management of TOS with the majority of patients enduring symptoms for a prolonged period of time before referral and definitive management. Phrenic nerve complications are an underreported complication of subclavian approach FRR, it is essential to counsel patients accordingly before proceeding to surgery. FRR for TOS can be performed safely and effectively in a DGH environment.

Review of Malpractice Litigation in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Venous & Lymphatic Disease

Malpractice claims involving nonthrombotic venous and lymphatic diseases and interventions have not been reported previously. We investigated common reasons for litigation, medical specialties involved, patient injuries, and case outcomes in malpractice litigation involving venous and lymphatic disease. Litigation cases entered into the Westlaw database from June 8th, 1984 to February 15th, 2018 were analyzed. Search terms included relevant words and phrases related to nonthrombotic venous, thoracic outlet syndrome, and lymphatic disease and treatment. Data on physician specialty, malpractice claims, and patient injuries jury outcomes, amount awarded to the plaintiff, and jury fees were collected and compared for each category. A total of 144 cases were identified. 41 cases involved varicose veins, 11 spider veins, 35 thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS), 17 other venous diseases, and 40 lymphatic diseases. Physician defendants were frequently vascular surgeons (23%) and general surgeons (15%). The majority of litigation claims involved "post-procedure complication" (77%), "lack of informed consent" (25%), "failure to diagnose & treat" (15%), and "intraoperative complications" (13%). The most common injuries were skin damage (27.8%), nerve damage (25%), and lymphedema (24%). Patient death occurred in 6% of cases. Out of venous malpractice cases with post-procedure complications, stab phlebectomy (27%) was the most common intervention followed by foam sclerotherapy (21%), rib resection (21%), laser spider vein removal (5%), and endovenous laser ablation therapy (EVLT)(3%). Of varicose vein cases, 15% included deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism as post-procedure complications. In TOS rib resections, 65% of cases referenced nerve damage and 12% involved arterial injury. For lymphatic disease cases, general surgeons were frequently identified defendants (25%). Lymphedema (93%) and lymphangitis (7%) occurred as post-procedure complications after breast, gynecologic, orthopedic, and radiation procedures. A majority of complications occurred after breast cases (40%). Verdicts overall ruled in favor of the defendant in 71% (102/144) of cases and the plaintiff in 20% (29/144) of cases. Out of cases ruled in favor of the plaintiff, 31% were lymphatics, 24% varicose veins, and 24% TOS cases. Only 8% (12/144) of cases were settled and one outcome was unknown. The mean award was $820,193 (standard deviation SD $1,226,008, Range $12,853 - $6,500,000). The majority of venous and lymphatic litigation cases involve claims of post-procedure complications. Venous complications occurred after open and endovascular treatment of varicose veins, spider vein treatment, and surgical management of TOS. Lymphedema occurred after breast, oncology, and orthopedic procedures. These cases reflect opportunities for intervention to help potentially prevent litigation.

Surgical decompression among Paget-Schroetter patients with subacute and chronic venous occlusion

ObjectiveManagement of Paget-Schroetter syndrome (PSS) with first rib resection (FRR) and venoplasty is successful in re-establishing subclavian vein (SCV) patency in most cases. However, in cases with subacute or chronic venous occlusion, SCV patency may not be achieved. Thus, the role for FRR remains controversial in cases of subacute or chronic SCV occlusion. Our goal is to determine whether FRR is beneficial in PSS patients with subacute or chronic SCV occlusion. MethodsA prospectively maintained thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) database was searched for patients undergoing FRR who were identified as having SCV occlusion on preoperative venography between 2012 and 2021. Preoperative and postoperative venous patency were determined by venography. Standardized functional outcomes were assessed using the Quick Disability Arm, Shoulder, Hand (QuickDASH—QDS) and Somatic Pain Scale (SPS) before and after FRR. The Derkash outcome score was recorded after FRR. ResultsOver the study period, 966 TOS operations were performed; of these, 401 were for venous TOS, and 33 patients were identified with subacute or chronic preoperative SCV occlusion verified by venography. The median age was 29 years, with 73% men. Eighteen patients had attempted thrombolysis; eight were performed at our institution, and ten performed at a referring facility. The median time from the symptom onset of SCV occlusion to FRR was 78 days for all patients. For the group that achieved venous patency after FRR, the time from SCV occlusion to FRR was 71 days, and it was 106 days for the group that remained occluded after FRR. All underwent postoperative venography and percutaneous attempt at SCV recanalization. Recanalization was successful in 64% (21) and unsuccessful in 36% (12). All patients experienced improvement in SPS and QDS. For all patients, the average SPS improved from 1.69 preoperatively to 0.25 postoperatively and the average QDS improved from 27.63 preoperatively to 10.19 postoperatively (P > .05). For patients who were successfully recanalized, the final SPS was 0.18 and the final QDS was 11.22 (P > .05). In patients who failed to achieve recanalization, the final SPS was 0.40 and the final QDS was 9.06 (P > .05). All postoperative Derkash outcome scores were excellent and good, with none fair or poor. ConclusionsIn patients with subacute or chronic preoperative SCV occlusion, surgical decompression and postoperative angioplasty resulted in re-establishing SCV patency in 64% of patients. Symptomatic patients clinically improve after surgical decompression regardless of whether venous patency is successfully re-established. These results indicate that symptomatic patients with PSS should be considered for TOS decompression even if their SCV is occluded in the subacute or chronic presentation.

Predictors of the need for rib resection in minimally invasive retroperitoneal approach for oblique lateral interbody fusion at upper lumbar spine (L1-2 and L2-3)

BackgroundThis study aimed to identify factors that can predict the need for rib resection in a minimally invasive, oblique retroperitoneal approach for upper lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF at L1-3) using modern tubular retractors. MethodsEighty-six patients, who underwent L1-2 and/or L2-3 OLIF at a single institution, were included. Decision for rib resection was made through intraoperative fluoroscopic view (true lateral view of the desired level). Patients were divided into two groups according to rib resection (rib resection and non-rib resection groups). Baseline demographics, surgical and radiographic data, including coronal/sagittal spinopelvic parameters and perioperative complications, were compared between the groups. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors predicting the need for rib resection. ResultsThe study cohort comprised 31 patients in the rib resection group and 55 patients in the non-rib resection group. There was no significant inter-group difference in terms of the baseline demographics. A total of 79% patients undergoing the two-level (both L1-2 and L2-3) procedures were rib-resected, while 81.6% of the patients undergoing the L2-3 level alone were not rib-resected. Endplate injuries occurred more commonly in the non-rib resection group (3% vs. 14%). Pleural laceration was observed in 6% of the patients in the rib resection group. The mean T10-L2 kyphosis was larger in the rib resection group than in the non-rib resection group (14.9° vs. 6.6°, P = 0.031). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the following independent predictors of the need for rib resection: an L1-2 inclusive procedure; T10-L2 kyphosis > 15.9°; and the apex of the coronal curve located above L2. Conclusion: The need for rib resection should be expected when performing L1-2 inclusive procedure. Even in the L2-3 alone case, aggressive decision-making for intraoperative rib resection might be required for an appropriate tubular retractor position, especially for patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis and apex vertebra of the major coronal curve located above L2.

Invited Commentary on Robotic First Rib Resection: Thoracic Outlet Decompression: Lessons Learned.

Invited Commentary on Robotic First Rib Resection: Thoracic Outlet Decompression: Lessons Learned.

Vascular thoracic outlet syndrome: Registry of 30-years of patient's outcomes at King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

To outline our experience with both arterial vascular thoracic outlet syndrome (ATOS) and venous TOS (VTOS). This was a retrospective review carried out at King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 1992-2022. All patients were diagnosed based on clinical presentation, imaging, and underwent surgical decompression solely via the supraclavicular approach. The median follow-up period was 18 months (range: 4-36 months). A total of 90 limbs were diagnosed with vascular TOS in 69 patients. Females accounted for 69.6% of the patients and approximately 86.7% had ATOS. All patients were symptomatic and underwent plain thoracic inlet and cervical spine radiography, along with duplex scans in both rest and provocative positions. Total cervical rib resection was carried out in 60% of cases, while 2% had partial resection. First rib resection was carried out in 13.3% of cases and combined cervical and first rib resections were carried out in 23.3%. Vascular procedures were needed for arterial repair in 20% of cases, while venous repair were carried out in 2.2%. No recurrence or post-operative mortality had been reported. Post-operative complications were observed in 18.9% of cases. Careful patient selection and diagnosis using advanced, but less invasive radiological imaging coupled with adequate surgical treatment can improve the patient's outcome.

Short segment rib resection to mitigate risk of pleural violation during retropleural lateral thoracic interbody fusion.

It can be difficult to avoid violating the pleura during the retropleural approach to the thoracolumbar spine. In this video, the authors resect a short segment of rib to allow more room for pleural dissection during a minimally invasive (MIS) lateral retropleural approach. After a lateral MIS skin incision, the rib is dissected and removed, clearly identifying the retropleural space. The curvature of the rib can then be followed, decreasing the risk of pleural violation. The pleura can then be mobilized ventrally until the spine is accessed. Managing the diaphragm is also illustrated by separating the fibers without a traditional cut through the muscle.The video can be found here: https://stream.cadmore.media/r10.3171/2022.3.FOCVID21138

Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome in the overhead and throwing athlete: A narrative review.

Thoracic outlet syndrome is an important cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction due to compression of neurovascular structures as they traverse the thoracic outlet. Symptoms are most commonly due to compression of the brachial plexus called neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (nTOS). Throwing athletes are at increased risk of nTOS because of a variety of biomechanical factors. However, because nTOS symptoms are often nonspecific, delayed diagnosis is common. Neurogenic thoracic outlet largely remains a diagnosis of exclusion with advanced imaging ruling out vascular involvement and diagnostic injections gaining favor in helping localize sites of compression. Although rehabilitation alone may improve symptoms in some athletes, many require surgical treatment for long-term relief. This generally entails decompression of the thoracic outlet by some combination of muscle release, brachial plexus neurolysis, and first rib resection. Outcomes tend to be successful in athletes with most achieving resolution of symptoms and return to athletic activity. NTOS is an important cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction in throwing athletes. The history and physical examination should focus on activities that exacerbate symptoms. Treatment of nTOS generally requires surgical intervention and allows throwing athletes to return to sport.

CHEST WALL RESECTION FOR LUNG CANCER: A 20-YEAR EXPERIENCE IN A SINGLE CENTER

TYPE: Abstract TOPIC: Lung Cancer PURPOSE: Lung cancers are known by their invasive character. Sometimes, a chest wall resection is imperative. We have been suposed to study the results of wall resection for lung cancer. METHODS: A retrospective study including patients who underwent a surgery of lung cancer with chest wall resection, in the Thoracic Surgery Department, Abderrahmen Mami’s Hospital, Ariana,Tunisia, from 2001 to 2020. RESULTS: Our study included 74 patients: 69 males and 5 females. The mean age was 60 years old. The tumor was located in the right upper lobe in 47 cases, the left upper lobe in 16 cases, the right lower lobe in 5 cases and the left lower lobe in 3 cases. Nine patients had a 1 rib resection. Thirty patients had a resection of 2 ribs, and 32 patients had a resection of more than 3 ribs. The resection was extended to the vertebrae in 2 cases, who had a hemivertebrectomy. The postoperative outcomes were simple in 52 cases(70%). A postoperative complication was noted in 22 cases, including 6 deaths. Thirteen cases of atelectasis, 5 cases of pneumonia, 2 cases of heart rhythm disorders and 4 cases of prolonged air leaks were noted. The average postoperative hospital stay was 10 days. Sixty two patients had adjuvant CT and 12 patients had adjuvant RT-CT. CONCLUSIONS: Resection’s quality is a main oncological prognostic factor. Chest wall resection in locally invasive lung cancer, may increase the postoperative morbi-mortality, but it, enhances the results of surgical treatment and the prognosis. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Full resection extended to chest wall improves surgery's results DISCLOSURE: Nothing to declare. KEYWORD: lung cancer

Preoperative thrombolysis is associated with improved vein patency and functional outcomes after first rib resection in acute Paget-Schroetter syndrome

IntroductionMost patients with acute Paget-Schroetter syndrome (PSS) present in one of two manners: (1) thrombosis managed initially with thrombolysis and anticoagulation and then referred for surgery, and (2) initial treatment with anticoagulation only and later referral for surgery. Definitive benefits of thrombolysis in the acute period (the first 2 weeks after thrombosis) over anticoagulation alone have not been well reported. Our goal was to compare patients managed with early thrombolysis and anticoagulation followed by first rib resection (FRR) and later postoperative venography with venoplasty (PTA) with those managed with anticoagulation alone followed by FRR and PTA using vein patency assessed with venography and standardized outcome measures. MethodsWe reviewed a prospectively collected database from 2000 to 2019. Two groups were compared: those managed with early thrombolysis at our institution (Lysis) and those managed with anticoagulation alone (NoLysis). All patients underwent FRR. Venography was routinely performed before and after FRR. Standardized outcome measures included Quick Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) scores and Somatic Pain Scale. ResultsA total of 50 Lysis and 50 NoLysis patients were identified. Pre-FRR venography showed that thrombolysis resulted in patency of 98% of veins, whereas 78% of NoLysis veins were patent. After FRR, postoperative venography revealed that 46 (92%) patients in the Lysis group and 37 (74%) patients in the NoLysis group achieved vein patency. Thrombolysis was significantly associated with final vein patency (odds ratio: 17 [4-199]; P < .001). Lysis patients had a trend toward lower QuickDASH scores from pre-FRR to post-FRR compared with NoLysis patients with a mean difference of −16.4 (±19.7) vs −5.2 (±15.6) points (P = .13). The difference in reduction of Somatic Pain Scale scores was not statistically significant. ConclusionsThrombolysis as initial management of PSS, combined with anticoagulation, followed by FFR and VenoPTA resulted in improved final vein patency and may lead to an improved functional outcome measured with QuickDASH scores. Therefore, clinical protocols using thrombolysis as initial management should be considered when planning the optimal treatment strategy for patients with acute PSS.

Development and Validation of a Prediction Model for Outcomes After First Rib Resection for Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Using the Society for Vascular Surgery Diagnostic Criteria

Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (NTOS) is the most common form of thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS). Yet this disease remains difficult to diagnose and successfully treat. The purpose of this study was to generate a predictive clinical calculator for postoperative outcomes after first rib resection (FRR).

Successful paraclavicular surgical decompression for recurrent venous thoracic outlet syndrome following transaxillary first rib resection in an elite athlete.

Recurrent effort thrombosis after prior surgical intervention for venous thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is an uncommon problem, and there are multiple alternative surgical approaches in the management of recurrent venous TOS. We present a case of a 23year-old female professional athlete who presented with arm swelling, pain, and recurrent effort thrombosis after prior transaxillary rib resection. Imaging at our institution revealed subclavian vein thrombosis, confirmed with dynamic venography, as well as a remnant first rib. Thrombolysis of the subclavian vein and balloon angioplasty was followed by paraclavicular thoracic outlet decompression with complete first rib resection. Success was confirmed with intraoperative dynamic venography demonstrating a patent subclavian vein and resulted in complete elimination of symptoms. Additional surgical decompression with complete medial first rib resection of remnant rib, which was potentially causing compression of the subclavian vein, may be necessary to prevent recurrent venous compression and thrombosis for venous TOS.

Features of surgical treatment of the apical right lung cancer

The tumor of the upper sulcus of the lung is an atypical form of cancer, which is characterized by invasion into the aperture of the chest and mediastinum, which in turn determines the manifestation of the disease of neurological symptoms.Tactical approaches in the treatment of this disease are well known. To date, complex treatment is used, which includes neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by surgical treatment. This approach gives the best result in terms of prognosis and survival of patients.Considering the local invasion, planning the surgical stage in the treatment of this group of patients is a difficult task and requires a multidisciplinary approach to determine the optimal surgical tactics.This paper presents our own clinical observation of the successful surgical treatment of a 54‑year‑old patient with a tumor of the upper sulcus of the right lung. In order to adequately visualize the pathological process, safety and convenience of surgical intervention, Hemi‑Clamshell access was used, which combined the advantages of sternotomy and thoracotomy. Taking into account the topical location of the tumor, the greatest technical difficulties during the operation arose when performing mobilization of the upper lobe of the right lung, adequate lymph dissection near large arterial and venous vessels, removal of part of the chest wall of the pleural cavity dome.Also, one of the important issues when planning surgical treatment of this group of patients is to determine the indications for restoring the skeletal function of the chest after rib resection. In our case, despite the resection of the posterior segments of the I–III ribs, all the muscles of the anterior chest wall were preserved, which took over part of the skeletal function of the chest. There was no development of paradoxical breathing in the postoperative period.Surgical interventions of this amount should be performed in specialized thoracic oncology clinics and multidisciplinary medical institutions. At the same time, a multidisciplinary approach of doctors of various specialties, the experience of the operating team in performing such operations and the appropriate anesthesiological and resuscitation service is needed.

A Rare Aneurysmal Bone Cyst of the Rib in an Infant: A Case Report

An aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a rare benign expansile lesion of the bone that consists of hemorrhagic cystic spaces separated by fibrous connective tissue containing osteoid and multinucleated giant cells. The lesion may be primary or secondary. We present a case of ABC in a 7-month-old girl who had a growing, antibiotic-refractory mass in the left chest wall. A computed tomography of the chest confirmed the anatomic location of the mass, but a percutaneous image-guided biopsy and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery performed during work-up were nondiagnostic. The patient ultimately had a partial rib resection via left thoracotomy. On histologic examination, the mass was found to be an ABC. To our knowledge, this is the second case reported on aneurysmal bone cyst of the rib in an infant. The presented case confirms that ABCs can affect any bone and suggests that the inclusion of an expansile osteolytic lesion of the ribs in differential diagnosis is necessary to facilitate timely treatment that warrants excellent results.

The supraclavicular nerve.

The aim of this study was to describe a new method for studying the supraclavicular nerve (SCN) conduction and to report four cases with SCN lesions. The SCN was antidromically recorded with a pair of self-adhesive electrodes located in the middle of the clavicle. Stimulation (<5mA) was delivered 7cm proximally with a bar electrode. To facilitate recording, it was explained to the participant that they would feel a very faint electrical sensation locally and an electrical tingle upward (ear) or downward (shoulder/clavicle). Each participant was asked to say when the tingling moved downward. In normal subjects, median values were 16 μV (range: 9-33) for sensory nerve action potential (SNAP) amplitude; 1.2ms (range: 1-1.5) for onset latency; and 1.25 (range: 1-1.7) for side-to-side amplitude ratio. In the four patients, the SCN SNAP was absent on the pathological side and normal on the healthy side. All four patients complained of unilateral neuropathic hypoesthesia on the anterior aspect of the neck, chest, and shoulder that occurred after radical neck surgery for thyroid or larynx cancer (x3) and first rib resection (x1). A comparison with previous reports shows that this simple method provides similar or highest SNAP amplitudes. SCN lesions are rare, and rarely referred for electrodiagnosis, and often overlooked. However, the SCN conduction study, which causes very slight inconvenience (low-intensity stimulation), allows a better understanding of the origin of the complaints and permits the patient to benefit of more suitable treatment.