La. Admin. Code tit. 40 § I-2219

Current through Register Vol. 50, No. 11, November 20, 2024

Section I-2219 - Definition of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

A. Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) may be described as a neurovascular disorder affecting the upper extremity which, on rare occasions, is caused by workplace factors, such as jobs that require repetitive activities of the upper extremities with forward head and shoulder postures. It should be emphasized that occupational TOS is a relatively uncommon disorder and other disorders with similar symptomatology need to be ruled out.

B. There are four types of thoracic outlet syndrome. The two vascular types, comprised of subclavian vein or artery pathology, are diagnosed with imaging. True or classic neurogenic TOS consists of a chronic lower trunk brachial plexopathy diagnosed by positive electrodiagnostic testing. It is usually unilateral, predominantly affects women, and results in classic electrophysiologic and physical exam findings such as hand atrophy. The two vascular types of TOS and true neurogenic are relatively rare and easily diagnosed. The most common type of TOS is non-specific neurogenic (also called disputed) TOS, which is diagnosed based on upper or lower trunk brachial plexus symptoms.

La. Admin. Code tit. 40, § I-2219

Promulgated by the Louisiana Workforce Commission, Office of Workers Compensation Administration, LR 37:1751 (June 2011).

AUTHORITY NOTE: Promulgated in accordance with R.S. 23:1203.1.