Clinical Significance of Maximum Intensity Projection Method for Diagnostic Imaging of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Abstract

The aim of this study was to use the magnetic resonance imaging maximum-intensity projection (MRI-MIP) method for diagnostic imaging of thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) and to investigate the stricture ratios of the subclavian artery (SCA), subclavian vein (SCV), and brachial plexus bundle (BP). A total of 113 patients with clinically suspected TOS were evaluated. MRI was performed in a position similar to the Wright test. The stricture was classified into four grades. Then, the stricture ratios of the SCA, SCV, and BP in the sagittal view were calculated by dividing the minimum diameter by the maximum diameter of each structure. Patients were divided into two groups: surgical (n = 22) and conservative (n = 91). Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney U test. The stricture level and ratio in the SCV were significantly higher in the surgical group, while the stricture level and the ratio of SCA to BP did not show significant differences between the two groups. The MRI-MIP method may be helpful for both subsidiary and severe diagnoses of TOS.