What is May-Thurner Syndrome?

May-Thurner syndrome is a type of venous compression syndrome. In this situation, the right iliac artery compresses the left iliac vein causing a partial or complete reduction in blood flow. This anatomical variant can increase the risk of developing a DVT (deep vein thrombosis).

 
 

Dr. Julian Javier discusses the evaluation and treatment of May Thurner Syndrome.

 
 

May-Thurner syndrome symptoms

This condition can be asymptomatic. In many cases, this condition is diagnosed after a patient develops a left-sided DVT. In other cases, patients may experience the following symptoms:

  • Leg swelling

  • Leg skin discoloration

  • Leg heaviness

  • Leg pain

  • Enlarged leg veins

  • Ankle skin discoloration

  • Ankle skin ulcers

  • Varicose veins in the pelvic area


How is May-Thurner syndrome diagnosed?

The symptoms of May Thurner can be subtle and this may delay the diagnosis. A high index of suspicion and a detailed history of your presentation along with a detailed physical examination provide the initial clues to this diagnosis. Venous ultrasound examinations are a reasonable initial diagnostic examination; however, more specific imaging tests are recommended in cases where the diagnosis cannot be completely excluded. Catheter-based venography with intravascular ultrasound are a highly sensitive combination to diagnose this condition.

How is May-Thurner syndrome treated?

Developments in technology have made the treatment of the May-Thurner syndrome relatively simple and effective. In some cases, conservative treatment is able to manage mild symptoms. A venoplasty with stent implantation is indicated in the presence of a complication, such as a venous ulcer, severe life-limiting symptoms, or if a blood clot develops.

 

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