[Primary thrombosis of the subclavian and axillary veins].

Primary thrombosis of the axillary and subclavian vein is a relatively rare disease. It is encountered mainly in junior subjects and develops most frequently after uncommon strain. It does not take an eventful course and therefore the patients usually arrive late at the surgical department. Active surgery is hardly ever possible. Even under field conditions it is important to make a phlebographic examination in time and to assess accurately the site of occlusion. In the early stage of the disease thrombectomy is indicated, otherwise heparin is used for treatment. In the event of "thoracic outlet syndrome" resection of the first rib is useful. The disease has a relatively uncertain prognosis and may even cause invalidity.