This treatable condition affects blood flow in the lower extremities.
Understanding May-Thurner Syndrome
May-Thurner Syndrome (MTS) occurs when the right iliac artery compresses the left iliac vein, preventing blood from properly flowing out of the lower extremities. This can cause pain, pressure, and heaviness as well as varicose veins and swelling in the legs, especially on the left side. If left untreated, MTS can lead to complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and post-thrombotic syndrome, and it has been connected to pelvic congestion syndrome in women. MTS affects both men and women and is often diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50.
Diagnosis
If you are experiencing these symptoms, a vascular specialist can perform a simple, noninvasive test to determine whether MTS is the cause. Imaging tests such as an ultrasound of the pelvis, CT venogram, or intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) are commonly used to diagnose MTS and determine the severity of the condition.
Treatment and Outlook
In some cases, medical management can help address symptoms and reduce the risk of DVT. This can include:
- Wearing compression hose/stockings to control swelling
- Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly
- Walking 5-10 minutes every few hours when sitting or standing for long periods of time
MTS can also be effectively treated with a minimally invasive endovascular intervention that uses a stent and IVUS imaging to locate the affected vein segments and restore normal circulation. This procedure can be performed in an outpatient setting and requires little downtime, allowing patients to quickly return to everyday life free from symptoms.
An Expert Weighs In
Meet the Author
Rachel Studebaker, BA, English, Summa Cum Laude
Rachel Studebaker is a graduate of Lee University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in advertising with the distinction of summa cum laude and served as editor-in-chief of the university’s biannual magazine, The Vindagua. After graduation, Rachel joined CMC Media & Marketing Group as an editor. Today, she serves as managing editor and is responsible for leading the editorial team in the development and completion of content for 17 publications involving health & wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle published in print and online for HealthScope® and CityScope® magazines as well as Choose Chattanooga® and Choose Huntsville® – premier publications serving Southeast Tennessee, North Georgia, and North Alabama. In addition to writing, editing, and coordinating copy, Rachel oversees networking and reputation management for the company’s publications. In her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, attending concerts, trying new restaurants, and traveling with her husband.
