May-Thurner Syndrome is Diagnosed and Treated by Vascular Doctors in Baltimore

The vascular system is made up of three types of blood vessels - veins, arteries and capillaries. May-Thurner syndrome occurs when the iliac vein, located in the pelvis, crosses and compresses the iliac artery, causing a restriction of blood flow. This syndrome can cause deep vein thrombosis (DVT) which can lead to a pulmonary embolism.

Many people are not aware that they have May-Thurner syndrome, as it can be asymptomatic. May-Thurner syndrome, especially if it results in DVT, can lead to the following symptoms:

• Leg pain, throbbing or cramping
• Leg swelling and/or a feeling of warmth in the affected leg
• Feeling of heaviness in the affected leg
• Red skin or discoloration on the affected leg
• Varicose veins
• Venous ulcers/sores

Risk factors include:

• Dehydration
• Lack of movement/immobilization
• Hormone usage (steroids, testosterone, oral contraceptives)

A duplex ultrasound or venography can be used to check suspected issues with blood flow in the veins and arteries. May-Thurner syndrome can be diagnosed using an intravascular ultrasound device that is inserted into the pelvic iliac vein to see how compressed it is.

The goal of May-Thurner syndrome treatment is to improve blood flow in the impacted blood vessels. Treatment will be based on the severity of May-Thurner syndrome and whether it occurs simultaneously with DVT.

Most commonly, May-Thurner syndrome treatment is completed by placing a stent in the iliac vein. This process involves angioplasty and stenting. 

Other recommended treatments may include:

• Blood thinners/anticoagulants
• Compression garments
• Thrombectomy to remove blood clot
• Venous bypass surgery to reroute blood flow