Vascular compression syndromes: a pictorial review

Abstract

Vascular compression syndromes include a group of rare changes due to extrinsic compression of veins or arteries by surrounding structures. Often these pathologies are underestimated due to the rarity, poor knowledge and non-specificity of symptoms. The best known are Eagle syndrome, Thoracic Outlet syndrome, Nutcracker syndrome, May-Thurner syndrome, Dunbar syndrome and Popliteal Entrapment syndrome. This work summarizes the main ultrasonographic characteristics, symptoms and treatments of choice. Knowledge of these characteristic signs is essential for the differential diagnosis. Failure to diagnose these rare diseases can expose patients to serious complications and risks to their health.

Ultrasound characteristics of abdominal vascular compression syndromes

“…It is important to assess the CA with inspiration along with expiration as CA compression may only occur at the end of the expiration. CT and MRI may also be used to rule out other causes of CA compression ( 14 ) such as lymph node metastases.…”

Incidental Discovery of a Cervical Rib in a Case of Acute Cholecystitis: A Rare Anatomical Variant

“…The seventh cervical vertebra gives rise to these anatomically rare ribs, which affect 0.5-1% of people [ 1 ]. It is present usually without any symptoms, but it may lead to vascular compression or thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) [ 2 , 3 ]. Children with cervical ribs frequently exhibit no symptoms other than a neck lump and slight soreness [ 2 ].…”

“…Children with cervical ribs frequently exhibit no symptoms other than a neck lump and slight soreness [ 2 ]. Cervical ribs can be unilateral or bilateral and differ in size, shape, and attachment sites [ 3 ]. The majority of cervical ribs are clinically insignificant and go unnoticed throughout life.…”

“…Type 1 cervical ribs are fully formed ribs that typically connect to either the first rib or the manubrium, a part of the sternum [ 1 , 5 ]. Type 2 cervical ribs are incomplete, lacking a full connection, and often have a free distal tip [ 3 ]. Type 3 cervical ribs also lack a complete connection and are characterized by a distal attachment via a fibrous band [ 1 , 4 ].…”

“…Type 3 cervical ribs also lack a complete connection and are characterized by a distal attachment via a fibrous band [ 1 , 4 ]. Type 4 cervical ribs are relatively short bone segments that extend beyond the transverse process of the C7 vertebra [ 1 , 3 , 4 ]. Despite their variations, cervical ribs do not serve any known physiological function in the body.…”