[Phleborgaphic studies of subclavian vein compression at the shoulder girdle].

60 healthy persons without clinical signs of neurovascular compression at the shoulder girdle were investigated with phlebograms of the arm under various arm-positions. Venous obstruction could be demonstrated under hyperabduction and shoulder-retraction in 70 per cent of the phlebograms. A compression of the subclavian vein in extreme positions of the arm can therefore be demonstrated in a significant number of healthy individuals. A narrowing of the costoclavicular space and an impression by the head of the humerus seem tobe the most frequent mechanisms of compression. Repeated compression between clavicula and first rib leads to thickening of the vein wall, forced expiration (Valsalva) to temporary stasis. These mechanisms could be the reason for primary subclavian vein thrombosis in otherwise healthy individuals.