A Guide to May-Thurner Syndrome

May-Thurner Syndrome (MTS) is a rare vascular condition that affects the flow of blood in the pelvis and left leg. It requires diagnosis by a vascular specialist and treatment to relieve the compression of the vein and prevent blood clots.

May-Thurner Syndrome is a relatively rare condition that involves the compression of a vein in your pelvis, which affects blood flow. While up to one-third of the population may have MTS, only about 2% to 3% of the population is actually diagnosed. May-Thurner Syndrome mainly affects women between 20 and 50 years old.

If it is left untreated, MTS can lead to severe complications such as post-thrombotic syndrome or deep vein thrombosis. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help many people with MTS to prevent further complications.

At CardioVascular Health Clinic, our cardiovascular specialists bring national-caliber expertise to the diagnosis and treatment of May-Thurner Syndrome (MTS). Our physicians are well-versed not only in the condition itself but also in the wide range of associated symptoms, potential causes and complications, and diverse treatment options. Our clinic combines state-of-the-art facilities and advanced diagnostic technology with a multidisciplinary team of experts who can also detect related conditions, including post-thrombotic syndrome, deep vein thrombosis, and iliac vein compression. This approach enables us to provide patients with more comprehensive care for improved outcomes.

Understanding May-Thurner Syndrome

May-Thurner Syndrome is a condition in which the right iliac artery presses against the left iliac vein, compressing it. (The iliac arteries are a set of blood vessels responsible for supplying blood to the lower half of the body, including the legs, pelvis, and reproductive organs.) This compression restricts the blood flow through the vein and increases the risk of developing a blood clot, especially in the left leg. The condition is also known as iliac vein compression or Cockett’s syndrome.

Many people with iliac vein compression don’t have symptoms and first become aware of the condition when they develop complications from the compression. The most common complication is deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Causes and Risk Factors of May-Thurner Syndrome

Although it is unclear exactly why some people develop May-Thurner Syndrome, it may develop as a result of the positioning of the anatomy. The natural crossing of the right iliac artery over the left iliac vein is normal for most people, but it may, in some cases, create enough pressure to affect the blood flow.

May-Thurner Syndrome is not an inherited disorder. However, certain factors may increase your likelihood of developing it. These include:

• Being assigned female at birth
• Recent childbirth
• Genetic conditions that affect blood clotting

Other factors can trigger MTS, causing you to develop symptoms or a blood clot, such as:

• Having more than one child
• Hormonal birth control
• Dehydration
• Sitting for long periods of time

May Thurner Syndrome is more likely to develop in adults aged 20-50, particularly women. Understanding the risk factors can help with early detection and intervention.

Symptoms of May-Thurner Syndrome

Symptoms of May-Thurner Syndrome are not always noticeable until a blood clot forms, often in the left leg. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Leg pain or throbbing, especially during exercise
• Swelling or heaviness in the left leg
• Skin discoloration or visible veins
• Varicose veins, which may occur in only one leg

Since many of these symptoms are found with other vascular conditions, it’s important to see a specialist if you have persistent leg pain or swelling. They will perform a physical exam and may order tests to look for signs of DVT or other complications.

Diagnosing May-Thurner Syndrome

The first step in diagnosing May-Thurner Syndrome is a physical exam followed by  imaging tests to look at blood flow and to check if the veins are compressed. Accurate imaging helps healthcare providers understand the extent of the compression and identify the best treatment options based on individual needs and symptoms.

Common tests used for diagnosis include:

• Ultrasound. This test creates an image of how your blood flows by using sound waves.
• CT scan or MRI. These provide detailed images of the blood vessels and can show locations of any blood clots or if there is damage to the blood vessels.
• Venogram. This is a special type of X-ray that uses contrast dye to show blood flow in the veins.

Specialized testing may be required to confirm MTS. In certain cases, a more advanced test, like an intravascular ultrasound, may be needed to get a closer look at the blood vessels. The specialists at CardioVascular Health Clinic are experts at looking at all your symptoms and knowing the right testing to perform to get an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Options for May-Thurner Syndrome

Treating May-Thurner Syndrome often requires a cardiovascular specialist. Specialists, such as vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists, are experienced in diagnosing and treating this condition. They can tailor treatments to individual needs and provide immediate relief from symptoms and long-term management.

CardioVascular Health Clinic in Oklahoma offers comprehensive treatment for MTS and related vascular conditions. Our team of expert vascular physicians can provide personalized care to help patients manage their symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.

When treating May-Thurner Syndrome, the goal is to relieve the pressure on the iliac vein, improve the blood flow, and prevent blood clots from forming. Your treatment depends upon how severe your symptoms are and if there are associated complications. Options your doctor may recommend include:

• Blood thinning medications. Anticoagulants can prevent blood clots from forming or growing larger.
• Angioplasty and stenting. This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a balloon to open a compressed or blocked vein. A stent is then placed to keep it open.
• Thrombolysis. This involves using a catheter to deliver clot-dissolving medicine directly to the clot. While an effective treatment for DVT, it is generally only used in the more severe cases.
• Vena cava filter. Some patients are unable to take blood thinners, so they need a different way to lower their risk of complications. A vena cava filter may be inserted instead to trap blood clots and prevent them from reaching the lungs.

These procedures are usually performed by vascular specialists, who can recommend the best approach for each patient based on their condition. 

If left untreated, May-Thurner Syndrome can lead to serious health risks, most often deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT can be life-threatening. A blood clot that has formed deep in the leg could break free and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. Additionally, untreated MTS can lead to long-term problems and a condition called postthrombotic syndrome, which is characterized by chronic leg pain, swelling, and skin changes.

Seeking timely treatment not only helps to reduce current symptoms you may be having but also reduces the risk of these more severe outcomes.

Expert Care for May-Thurner Syndrome at CardioVascular Health Clinic

May-Thurner Syndrome may be relatively uncommon, but understanding its symptoms and treatment options can help you take steps to protect your health. Unexplained leg pain and swelling can be worrisome and impact your quality of life. If you’re experiencing symptoms like these, reach out to CardioVascular Health Clinic.

At CardioVascular Health Clinic, our specialists have been at the forefront of cardiovascular care for decades, pioneering treatments that redefine patient care and offer hope to people who have had conditions like May-Thurner Syndrome but no answers. We’re committed to innovation, minimally invasive techniques, and a multidisciplinary approach so we can tailor every treatment and provide the compassionate, comprehensive care you deserve. 
Early diagnosis and treatment of May-Thurner Syndrome can make a significant difference in quality of life and health outcomes, so reach out to CardioVascular Health Clinic today to schedule an appointment.