Venous Compression Syndromes

Innovations in imaging and treatment techniques are improving outlooks for individuals with venous compression syndromes.

Understanding Venous Compression Syndromes

Venous compression syndromes occur when veins are compressed by surrounding structures, leading to impaired blood flow. Common types include May-Thurner Syndrome (iliac vein compression), Nutcracker Syndrome (renal vein compression), and Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (subclavian vein compression).

red blood cells

Causes and Symptoms

These conditions can be caused by anatomical variations or abnormalities or external factors like tumors, cysts, or scarring. Women are up to five times more likely to develop May-Thurner Syndrome,  and genetic predisposition and family history also play a role in determining risk.

Symptoms include swelling, pain, or heaviness in the affected limb; varicose veins or venous ulcers; and blood clots, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).

Treatment Options

A clinical evaluation can assess and diagnose venous compression syndromes using innovative imaging techniques. These include:

  • Duplex ultrasound, a non-invasive option that assesses blood flow and vein anatomy
  • CT or MR venography, advanced imaging systems for detailed visualization of venous structures
  • Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), an invasive technique that provides real-time imaging inside the veins

 

Once diagnosed, there are many options available to treat these conditions. Conservation management can involve lifestyle modifications, compression stockings, and anticoagulation therapy. Endovascular treatments include angioplasty and stenting – minimally invasive procedures to open the compressed veins – and thrombolysis – medication to dissolve blood clots in cases of thrombosis. For some patients, surgical intervention may be recommended. Decompression surgery can remove the compressing structures and in severe cases, bypass surgery can create new pathways for blood flow.

Outlook

Long-term care includes monitoring with follow-up imaging and ongoing management of underlying conditions to prevent recurrence. Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent complications like CVI, recurrent DVTs, or pulmonary embolism and improve the quality of life with timely and appropriate treatment.

An Expert Weighs In

“Unexplained pain, pressure, and swelling in the upper and lower extremities is not normal and can be related to a problem with the circulation system. The venous side of the circulation brings blood back to the heart from the extremities. A blockage narrowing or constriction of the venous system reduces blood flow in the extremity and can cause severe symptoms. Vascular surgeons are the specialty that are trained to diagnose and treat arterial and venous conditions.”

Picture of Chris LeStar, MD, FACS, RVT

Chris LeStar, MD, FACS, RVT

Vascular/Endovascular Surgeon, Vascular Institute of Chattanooga

Meet the Author

Rachel Studebaker
Rachel Studebaker, BA, English, Summa Cum Laude

Rachel Studebaker is a graduate of Lee University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a minor in advertising. While attending Lee, Rachel served as editor-in-chief and creative director for the school’s biannual publication Vindagua and was a member of Sigma Tau Delta English Honors Society. Since joining CMC Publications as editor, Rachel has assumed the role of managing editor, where she is responsible for the annual development and completion of seventeen publications involving health, wellness, and lifestyles articles that are published in print and online for HealthScope, CityScope, and Choose Chattanooga magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia.

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