What is it?

May-Thurner syndrome is a rare vascular condition that affects a vein in your pelvis.

The left iliac vein is compressed by an artery nearby. Blood returns to your heart from your pelvis and legs through this vein.

As a result of the compression, blood does not flow properly, leading to narrowing and scarring of the vessels.

An artery can compress the right iliac vein or both veins in some cases.

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Signs & symptoms

Initially, May-Thurner syndrome may not cause any symptoms, but over time, it can cause:

Leg swelling.

Blood pools in your veins due to chronic venous insufficiency. Symptoms include swelling, pressure, skin changes, and unhealed venous ulcers.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot in a vein deep below your skin.
If a blood clot breaks free and travels to your lungs, heart, or brain, it can lead to serious, even life-threatening issues like:

Pulmonary embolism, a blood clot in your lung

Heart attack

Stroke

Diagnosis

Your doctor will perform the following tests to diagnose May-Thurner syndrome:

Examine your body.

Describe your medical history and symptoms.

Confirm your diagnosis with an imaging test, such as an ultrasound, MRI, or venogram.

Treatment

The May-Thurner syndrome can be treated.

Symptoms and risk factors will determine your treatment.

May-Thurner syndrome can be treated in several ways, including:

Preventing blood clots with blood thinners.

Clot-busting medicine is delivered directly to clot sites using thrombolysis, a catheter-based procedure.

Using a small metal mesh tube, stenting opens your vein and restores blood flow.

Compression stockings.

In some cases, you may need surgery

☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.

Learn more about our editorial process for content accuracy.

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