Prevalence and Clinical Characteristics of Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome in Specific Industrial Field

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to analyze the multiple factors as a cause of thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) in specific industrial field which is a South Korea company manufacturing rolling stock, defense products and plant equipment. METHODS: We analyzed questionnaire survey of 30 patients diagnosed as TOS at outpatient department from January 2005 to October 2015 retrospectively. We reviewed clinical records and questionnaire about repetitive task related to microtrauma. Questionnaire was established to analyze the correlation between occupational history and TOS. Statistical test was done with multiple regression analysis. RESULTS: Incidence rate was 9%, all of 30 patients engaged in heavy workload with symptoms of pain in neck and shoulder. A multiple regression was run to predict arm visual analogue scale (VAS) score from age, force of work, time of work and career. The model of analysis for arm VAS was statistically significant, p<0.001, adjusted r²=0.489. Only force of work variable added was statistically significantly to the prediction, p<0.001. CONCLUSION: Prevalence of TOS in highly loaded industrial field is higher than typically known, appropriate diagnosis is important for early comeback to work. Aggressive diagnosis and treatment is important since non-operative treatment can have satisfying result for patient and help early comeback to work.