May-Thurner syndrome

May-Thurner syndrome occurs when the left iliac vein, which carries blood from your legs and pelvis back to your heart, is compressed by the right iliac artery. When you have a healthy and normal venous flow, your feet and legs circulate blood to and from your heart through the right and left iliac veins located in your lower extremities. When a patient suffers from May-Thurner syndrome, the healthy flow of blood is obstructed, and the right common iliac artery crosses over the left iliac vein and compresses it against the bony structures of the spine. This causes either partial, or complete obstruction of venous flow.

When it comes to treating May-Thurner syndrome, we take a comprehensive approach to quickly and effectively treat the condition with customized care. We offer patients dealing with symptoms thorough, top-of-the-line, diagnostic studies, such as duplex ultrasounds and MR venograms, so we can see the full-scope of the condition. This meticulous approach allows us to uncover the best possible treatment plan possible, so you know that you’re receiving the leading-edge care you deserve. Our vascular specialists are highly skilled in minimally invasive treatment for May-Thurner syndrome, which helps minimize the level of discomfort, post-operative pain and recovery time for our patients.    

Our vascular surgeons and specialists understand that living with May-Thurner syndrome can be painful, and sometimes a bit frightening. That’s why we consider ourselves a partner in every step of your care, from listening and understanding every one of your symptoms, to creating a fine-tuned treatment approach that works best with your lifestyle and condition. Together, we will improve your health and overall quality of life. 

Symptoms of May-Thurner syndrome include: 

• Swelling or bulging of the left lower extremity
• Heaviness or fullness in the leg or foot
• Venous ulcers or sores that do not heal over time
• Bulging veins, otherwise known as varicose veins

Some patients might not experience any symptoms at all until they develop Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot that forms within the deep veins of the body. Symptoms of DVT include: 

• Leg swelling
• Pain
• Tenderness
• Redness of the skin
• Skin that feels warm to the touch

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, you should see your doctor right away.

The cause of May-Thurner Syndrome is unknown, as the crossover of the right iliac artery and the left iliac vein is the normal anatomy of the human body. However, in some cases, the right iliac artery presses the left iliac vein against the spine, causing the narrowing of the vein and disrupting healthy venous flow.

Risk factors related to May-Thurner Syndrome include:

• Pregnancy
• Using oral contraceptives
• A family history of blood clots in the lower extremities
• History of hospitalization
• Immobilization
• Recent surgery or trauma to the veins

A history of certain autoimmune diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease

About 20 percent of the population has May-Thurner syndrome. Of that 20 percent, about half will actually develop symptoms related to the condition.

The main complication caused by May-Thurner Syndrome is DVT, the formation of the blood clot within the veins. If this block clot breaks free, it can travel throughout the blood stream. If this clot reaches the lungs, it can cause a severe, sometimes fatal blockage known as a pulmonary embolism.

When it comes to vascular disorders, there is much more than meets the eye. Our specialists make it a point to assess your entire venous circulation and all three venous systems to understand not only the source, but every facet of your condition. This helps our team craft a solid, viable treatment approach, which is particularly important when dealing with compression of the more proximal veins of your pelvis, where recurrence is a risk.  

Our vascular specialists are dedicated to reducing the pain and discomfort associated with May-Thurner syndrome, in addition to preventing more severe complications, such as DVT. We offer a wide range of treatment options aimed at correcting the compression of the left iliac vein and clearing present clotting, or thrombus. Our team will work with you every step of the way to find the treatment that is right for you—whether it’s a blood thinner or a minimally invasive procedure—walking you through the full breadth and depth of every option.

Making healthy choices in your everyday life, such as engaging in aerobic exercise or avoiding the use of tobacco, can make all the difference when it comes to the prevention of May-Thurner syndrome and other venous circulation issues. Avoiding risk factors related to venous pooling or swelling of the leg which may result in clotting, such as birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, is also effective. Make it a point to break up prolonged periods of immobilization, such as long car rides, to keep venous circulation flowing properly.