Ketamine infusion for pain management in a case of thoracic outlet syndrome.

Abstract

This case report presents the successful use of ketamine infusion therapy as pain relief for a patient with bilateral neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) combined with arterial TOS after bilateral first rib resection surgery. The patient did not respond well to medical management due to limited effects and severe side effects. However, surgical treatment resulted in temporary relief. After ketamine infusion, quality of life has improved considerably because of increased functional capacity and decreased pain sensation. However, the clinical signs of arterial TOS remained. Additional prospective and standardized studies are needed to confirm if ketamine infusion is a good option for pain management in refractory cases of TOS.