May-Thurner Syndrome (Iliac Vein Compression)

The hidden cause of left leg swelling, pain, and DVT risk. Advanced diagnostics. Proven treatment. Long-term relief.

🩺 What Is May Thurner Syndrome?

May-Thurner Syndrome (MTS) is a condition where the left iliac vein is compressed by the right iliac artery, restricting blood flow from the left leg back to the heart.

This hidden form of pelvic vein compression can cause chronic left leg swelling, heaviness, aching, fatigue, and increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Over time, it may also lead to visible varicose veins and valve damage in the lower leg due to the chronic pressure buildup.

Common Signs Your Iliac Vein May Be Compressed:

  •  Persistent swelling in the left leg (most common)
  • Heaviness, aching, or throbbing — especially later in the day
  • Fatigue, tightness, or discomfort in the left leg with prolonged standing
  • History of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) in the left leg
  • Prominent or abnormal varicose veins in the left leg, groin, or lower abdomen

How We Diagnose May-Thurner Syndrome

Standard vein evaluations can miss this hidden problem.

At The Vein Clinic of Dallas, we use a comprehensive diagnostic approach to identify May-Thurner Syndrome with precision:
– High-resolution vein ultrasound to detect clues of pressure buildup and abnormal flow patterns
– IVUS (Intravascular Ultrasound) — the gold standard for diagnosing iliac vein compression with real-time internal imaging
– CT Venogram or MR Venogram — advanced cross-sectional imaging to visualize pelvic vein anatomy and confirm compression severity

This precise process ensures that no compression — subtle or severe — is missed.

How We Treat May-Thurner Syndrome

The goal is to relieve the compression, restore healthy blood flow, and prevent long-term damage.

  • Treatment typically includes:
  • Placement of an iliac vein stent to reopen the vein and eliminate the outflow obstruction
  • Correction of coexisting venous reflux or varicose veins, if present, using procedures like radiofrequency ablation, microfoam, or microphlebectomy
  • Compression therapy and long-term vein health management to support optimal circulation and prevent future complications

Results You Can Expect:

✔️ Significant reduction in left leg swelling
✔️ Relief from heaviness, aching, throbbing, and fatigue
✔️ Lower risk of future DVT or blood clots
✔️ Improved circulation and long-term vein health

Is Treatment Covered by Insurance?

Yes. Evaluation, diagnostic imaging, and treatment for May-Thurner Syndrome are typically considered medically necessary when symptoms are present.

Most insurance plans cover both the diagnostic process and treatment procedures.

Why Choose The Vein Clinic of Dallas?

Supporting Your Recovery at Home

✔️ Physician-led care — always. Every patient’s evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment plan is personally led by Dr. Husein Poonawala — never delegated to mid-levels or assistants.

✔️ Advanced diagnostics others miss. Our process includes high-resolution ultrasound, IVUS, and cross-sectional imaging — tools that go far beyond standard vein exams.

✔️ Comprehensive vein care. We don’t just treat surface veins — we uncover and correct hidden problems like iliac vein compression to deliver real, lasting results.

✔️ Long-term care mindset. Our focus is on maintaining healthy circulation, not just quick fixes.

📍 Why Early Diagnosis Matters

If left untreated, May-Thurner Syndrome can lead to:

  • Repeated DVTs
  • Post-thrombotic syndrome (chronic pain, swelling, skin ulcers)
  • Long-term damage to your vein valves

Contact Information

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