Descriptive Anatomy of the Interscalene Triangle and the Costoclavicular Space and Their Relationship to Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: A Study of 60 Cadavers
Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics
Abstract
Objective: Thoracic outlet syndrome classically results from constrictions in 1 or more of 3 specific anatomical locations: the interscalene triangle, costoclavicular space, and coracopectoral tunnel. Magnetic resonance and computed tomographic imaging studies suggest that, of the 3 potential locations for constriction, the costoclavicular space is the most susceptible to compression. This study of human cadavers aims to expand on the descriptive anatomy of the interscalene triangle and associated costoclavicular space.
Methods: The interscalene angle, interscalene triangle base, and costoclavicular space were measured on 120 sides of embalmed human cadavers. Linear distances and angles were measured using a caliper and protractor, respectively. The data were analyzed by calculating the mean, range, and standard deviation.
Results: The range for the interscalene base was 0 to 21.0 mm with a mean of 10.7 mm. For the interscalene angle, the range was 4° to 22° with a mean of 11.3°. Measurements for the costoclavicular space ranged from 6 to 30.9 mm with a mean of 13.5 mm.
Conclusions: No significant differences were observed between left and right interscalene triangles or costoclavicular spaces; furthermore, there were no differences between the sexes concerning these 2 locations.
DOI
10.1016/j.jmpt.2012.04.017
Publication Date
6-2012
Keywords
Anatomy, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
ISSN
1532-6586
Recommended Citation
Dahlstrom K, Olinger A. Descriptive Anatomy of the Interscalene Triangle and the Costoclavicular Space and Their Relationship to Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: A Study of 60 Cadavers. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2012; 35(5). doi: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2012.04.017.
