By: Dr. Dev Batra | 01.29.23
May-Thurner syndrome (MTS) is a rare but serious medical condition. Also called iliac vein compression syndrome or Cockett’s syndrome, it affects two blood vessels in the pelvic region. It may or may not produce symptoms initially, but it does increase your risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in your left leg.
At Texas Vascular Institute, interventional radiologist Dr. Dev Batra and his team handle all manner of blood vessel problems, including May-Thurner syndrome and DVT. Because many of our patients in the Dallas and Hurst, Texas, areas aren’t familiar with either condition, we’ve put together this guide about signs and symptoms so you’ll know when to get medical help.
Your circulatory system, in brief
Your circulatory system serves two important functions: it transports oxygen and nutrients to the tissues to keep them healthy and returns the depleted blood to the heart. To accomplish this, your heart regularly contracts, pushing oxygenated blood out through the arteries and deoxygenated back through the veins.
Veins, though, have the harder job because they have to fight gravity’s pull. To overcome this force, your thigh and calf muscles contract and squeeze the veins, forcing the blood upward. The veins also contain one-way valves that close once the blood passes and prevent it from flowing backward.
Valves become damaged, though, usually due to trauma or high blood pressure. That means they don’t close fully, and blood can flow backward, pooling around the damaged valves. That is called venous insufficiency, and it’s the first stage of vein disease. It can cause varicose veins, edema, and skin ulceration, among other problems.
What is May-Thurner syndrome?
It’s normal for arteries and veins to sometimes cross each other’s paths. However, with MTS, that crossing becomes a problem.
MTS involves your right iliac artery — the main artery transporting blood into your right leg — and the left iliac vein — the main vein transporting blood from your left leg back to your heart.
With MTS, the right iliac artery pushes on the left iliac vein as they cross in your pelvic region. Blood slows as it moves through the left iliac vein due to the pressure, like water does when you step on a hose.
When blood flows sluggishly, it’s more likely to pool and clot, increasing the risk of developing DVT. Unlike superficial clots, DVT clots, which form in the deep leg veins, are a significant health risk.
First, the presence of the clot further restricts blood flow in the leg. Second, the clot (or a piece of it) may detach from the vein, traveling to the lungs. If it becomes lodged in the lung, it’s called a pulmonary embolism — a life-threatening condition.
6 symptoms of May-Turner syndrome
Most people with MTS don’t experience symptoms unless they develop DVT. However, because MTS leads to inefficient blood flow, it’s possible to experience symptoms without developing DVT.
Symptoms occur primarily in the left leg and can include any combination of the following:
- Claudication (leg pain while walking)
- Swelling
- A “heavy” feeling in the leg
- Varicose veins
- Skin discoloration (venous stasis dermatitis)
- Leg ulcers
Women may also develop another pelvic-area condition that needs to be ruled out for an MTS diagnosis. Pelvic congestion syndrome is a case of varicose veins in the pelvis instead of the legs. The main symptom is pelvic pain.
Treating MTS
MTS treatment options focus on improving blood flow in the left iliac vein, which also lowers your risk for DVT. Some procedures include:
Angioplasty and stenting
Dr. Batra inserts a small catheter with a balloon at the end into the vein. He inflates the balloon to open the vein, then places a stent (small mesh tube) to keep it open. Then, he deflates and removes the balloon, leaving the stent in place.
Bypass surgery
Dr. Batra uses a graft to reroute blood around the compressed part of the vein, restoring flow.
Repositioning the right iliac artery
Dr. Batra moves the right iliac artery behind the left iliac vein to relieve pressure. In some cases, he may place tissue between the left iliac vein and the right artery to “pad” the area.
If you’ve developed DVT, treatment includes blood thinners, clot-busting medications, or placing a vena cava filter that prevents clots from traveling to the lungs.
If you’re noticing any of the symptoms of May-Thurner syndrome, it’s time to come to Texas Vascular Institute for an evaluation by Dr. Batra. Give us a call at either location or book your appointment online.
Read more blogs
Varicose Veins in Hurst: Expert Care at Your Doorstep
At Texas Vascular Institute (TVI), we empathize with the discomfort and worry caused by varicose veins. That's why we're here in Hurst, providing cutting-edge treatments that are customized to address your unique needs. With our team of experts wielding extensive knowledge and experience, we promise to provide the utmost care in a warm and compassionate atmosphere. Let us help you find relief and regain your confidence!
Varicose Veins in Dallas: Quality Care You Can Trust
Our exceptional team of vascular specialists are true leaders in their field, armed with years of invaluable experience. Harnessing the power of cutting-edge advancements in vein treatment, they've transformed the lives of numerous patients, liberating them from the pain and unsightly burden of varicose veins. When you choose TVI, you're opting for unparalleled care and unwavering commitment to your varicose vein needs in Dallas.
How to Get Rid of Varicose Veins in Hurst?
The causes and risk factors of varicose veins vary from genetics to age, pregnancy, obesity, and prolonged standing or sitting, among other factors. Some typical signs and possible issues include discomfort, inflammation, irritation, hemorrhage, dermatological alterations, sores, and thrombosis. You may want to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms or complications.
WHAT OUR PATIENTS
have to say
Texas Vascular Institute always appreciates feedback from our valued patients. To date, we’re thrilled to have collected 378 reviews with an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars. Please read what others are saying about Texas Vascular Institute below, and as always, we would love to collect your feedback.
Leave a ReviewAmazing Practice
I'm very particular with my Healthcare and tend to be cautious with referrals to specialists. This office is amazing from the first point of contact. Their staff are friendly, professional and highly knowledgeable. Then the Dr is just as amazing as his staff, absolutely brilliant. Office manager Jessica has this office running like a well oiled machine and does so with a smile, an air of confidence, kindness and professionalism. Love this practice!!
- Richard G.
Beyond Thankful
Dr Batra and his staff are amazing! We are so grateful to have found him. Everyone is so kind and so caring and Dr Batra explains everything so well and does procedures with excellence. Beyond thankful to be under their care!!!
- Bitsy P.
Gold Standard
This is a gold standard for how a medical practice should be run. I was promptly seen at my scheduled time, my ultrasound was thorough and I received plenty of attention and care from the staff and Dr.Batra.
- Weronika L.
INSURANCE
We accept most major insurance plans. Please contact the medical office for all insurance related questions.
3500 Oak Lawn Ave, #760
Dallas, TX 75219
For Appointments: 972-798-4710
General Inquiries: 972-646-8346
809 West Harwood Rd, Suite 101,
Hurst, TX 76054
For Appointments: 972-798-4710
General Inquiries: 972-646-8346
4716 Alliance Blvd Suite #180,
Plano, TX 75093
For Appointments: 972-798-4710
General Inquiries: 972-646-8346