How is May-Thurner syndrome diagnosed?
How is May-Thurner syndrome diagnosed?
Diagnosing May-Thurner syndrome To diagnose May-Thurner syndrome, your doctor will: Perform a physical exam. Ask about your medical history and symptoms. Use an imaging test — like an ultrasound, MRI, or venogram — to confirm your diagnosis.
What causes May-Thurner syndrome?
May-Thurner syndrome (MTS) is caused when the left iliac vein is compressed by the right iliac artery, which increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the left extremity. DVT is a blood clot that may partially or completely block blood flow through the vein.
How common is iliac vein compression?
Iliac vein compression (LIVC) is a prevalent finding in the general population, but a smaller number of patients are symptomatic. ILVC should be considered in symptomatic patients with unexplained unilateral lower leg swelling.
What causes iliac vein compression syndrome?
Iliac vein compression syndrome, also know as May-Thurner syndrome (MTS), is caused by both mechanical and physiologic factors; the chronic pulsatile compression of the left common iliac vein (LCIV) by the right common iliac artery (RCIA) stimulates the formation of fibrotic adhesions that can cause partial or complete …
How serious is iliac vein compression syndrome?
If left untreated, iliac compression may lead to deep vein thrombosis, which may lead to the following complications: Pulmonary embolism. Heart attack. Stroke.
What type of doctor treats May-Thurner syndrome?
Patients generally come to Center for Vascular Medicine for the diagnosis of May-Thurner Syndrome after experiencing symptoms for several months to years. Oftentimes, they are referred by their OB/GYN or primary care physician. If left untreated, MTS may develop into a Deep Vein Thrombosis (blood clot).
How painful is May-Thurner syndrome?
The compression on the vein often causes persistent low back pain. This may localize or may shoot from the low back to the groin area. People with May-Thurner syndrome may also experience pain in the left leg after sitting for long periods. Because this pain is usually subtle, it is often overlooked.
How is iliac vein compression diagnosed?
CT venography will often demonstrate dilated veins in the pelvis full of thrombus, just distal to the adjacent iliac artery. If May-Thurner syndrome is suspected, intravascular ultrasound is used to pinpoint the exact area where the artery is compressing the vein, and clot will be seen below that narrowing.
Where is a stent placed for May-Thurner syndrome?
A majority of women diagnosed with May-Thurner Syndrome will undergo a minimally invasive procedure to place a stent in the compressed iliac vein. Using a combination of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and venography, the physician will precisely determine which vein segments are diseased and to what extent.
How is iliac vein compression treated?
Treatment options may include: Blood thinners. Clot busters. Angioplasty and stent placement.
How long do iliac vein stents last?
Raju: Iliac vein stents have excellent long-term patency. In nonthrombotic disease, only three stents among over 1,000 that were followed up to 10 years (cumulative) have occluded—an astonishing statistic.
Can May-Thurner go away?
While there is no “cure” for May-Thurner Syndrome, it can be treated successfully to relieve symptoms. Most procedures are minimally invasive.